The transition in the automotive industry towards electric vehicles is heralding a change in the design language, just like LEDs did for luminaires. Material manufacturers are adapting to these new conditions and are developing custom materials for the respective applications – and Plexiglass special molding compounds from Röhm GmbH are a perfect example of this. Between October 12 and 16, the Molding Compounds business unit will be demonstrating how design elements can be combined with a range of functions at the Fakuma 2021 trade fair in Friedrichshafen, in hall B5, booth B5-5401.
“The trade fair is our first large event since the COVID-19 pandemic started,” says Siamak Djafarian, head of the business unit. During this period, contact with customers and partners continued via other channels and some new digital formats. “However, we also have a lot of news to share, which is why we are very much looking forward to meeting our customers and partners face to face once again.”
Plexiglass molding compounds have proven their worth in many fields of application – from the automotive and lighting industries to the electronics and household appliance sectors. “Based on our decades of experience and development expertise, as well as our enthusiasm for the future, our materials are used time and again to create innovations,” says Djafarian. The brand polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) from Röhm is an extremely diverse plastic that offers great design freedom and boasts excellent light-guiding properties. At the same time, it impresses with its low weight and easy to mold and process. The material also stands out thanks to its extraordinary UV and weather resistance and its resulting durability. At Fakuma 2021, Röhm will be showcasing the material’s versatile properties and present its extensive portfolio based on various application examples of Plexiglass molding compounds.
Plexiglass molding compounds turn taillights into a trademark
The red illuminated arch welcoming visitors to the booth is visible from afar. It reflects a trend in the automotive industry, where large, brand-specific taillights make it easy to recognize a vehicle manufacturer, even from a long distance. These ever-larger design lights are made possible by using different components, such as covers or light guides, made from transparent and light-scattering Plexiglass molding compounds. These homogeneous light features are realized thanks to transparent and light-diffusing Plexiglass molding compounds. They offer good light-scattering properties as well as minimal light transmission losses, and are available in a range of formulations depending on the specific application.
Plexiglass Optical HT combines high heat deflection temperatures with optical quality
At Fakuma 2021, Röhm will be presenting one of its latest special molding compounds for the first time: Plexiglass Optical HT. This compound was specially developed for use with high-performance LEDs. Until now, these applications often involved a compromise between high optical quality and heat deflection temperatures. With Plexiglass Optical HT, a new special molding compound is now available that fulfills both demands. The compound ensures the best possible optical quality even at increased continuous service temperatures, thereby offering the automotive and lighting industries greater leeway for contemporary product designs.
Pleximid TT50 HF, a brand polymethyl methacrylimide (PMMI) from Röhm, is another special molding compound suitable for even greater temperatures. With its increased flow capability, it is ideal for very fine structures and increased reproduction accuracy.
Plexiglass molding compounds for robust decorative panels on car bodies
The front design of vehicles is also changing, driven by the fact that electric vehicles do not require a cooling air stream, as was necessary in cars with internal combustion engines. As a result, the eye-catching radiator grilles that used to adorn many front bumpers can make way for other design elements. Whether for (illuminated) emblems and lighting elements, or air intakes and sensor covers – the demand for plastic elements is greater than ever before. However, the materials used in applications on the lower car body of the vehicle must be particularly robust. Impact-modified Plexiglass special molding compounds easily withstand these stresses. For example, Plexiglass Resist AG 100 with its well-balanced properties is a robust and cost-efficient alternative for many components that would otherwise require coating.
Plexiglass molding compounds for smart design solutions for household appliances
Connected household appliances via apps, smart home applications or digital solutions for small electronic devices – many manufacturers of household appliances are following the trend of smart design solutions that combine design and functionality. One example of this are information displays that are not visible when the appliance is turned off. When turned on, however, information is shown on the display in true colors. This black panel effect can also be seen on a large screen at the center of the trade fair booth, made possible thanks to Plexiglass special molding compounds in neutral gray colors. Visitors can learn more about their wide range of properties using the special demonstration unit available at the booth.
Plexiglass molding compounds are also used to provide a high-quality surface finish and to extend the durability of the product. “Plexiglass is sustainable by design,” emphasizes Djafarian, “and makes a significant contribution to a considerate use of resources.”
