The Development of Lightweight, Highly Impact Resistant Components for Automotive Underbody Applications 2003-01-0792
Underbody shields are being increasingly adopted, especially by European OEM’s, as a means of increasing fuel economy through improved aerodynamic performance, reducing noise and aiding End-of-Life recyclability by reducing the need for PVC underbody protection. Such parts have to withstand very high levels of impact and abrasion from small stones and gravel, yet they also need to be light weight and easily removed for maintenance.
This paper describes the development and testing of underbody components using a novel, 100% polypropylene, self-reinforced composite, developed at the University of Leeds and now being produced by BP under the name CurvTM. One of the most interesting aspects of this material is that its already high levels of resistance to impact and abrasion are maintained at very low temperatures making it an ideal material for automotive exterior components, especially underbody.
Citation: Riley, D. and Jones, R., "The Development of Lightweight, Highly Impact Resistant Components for Automotive Underbody Applications," SAE Technical Paper 2003-01-0792, 2003, https://doi.org/10.4271/2003-01-0792. Download Citation
Author(s):
Derek E. Riley, Renita S. Jones
Affiliated:
Amoco Fabrics & Fibers Co
Pages: 6
Event:
SAE 2003 World Congress & Exhibition
ISSN:
0148-7191
e-ISSN:
2688-3627
Also in:
Advanced in Plastic Components-SP-1763, SAE 2003 Transactions Journal of Materials & Manufacturing-V112-5
Related Topics:
Fuel economy
Wear
Drag
Aerodynamics
Composite materials
Recycling
Noise
Parts
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