Simulation Project Gauges Aging of Polyamide in Contact with Coolant

Posted by Staff | Jun 05, 2023

To unlock the full potential of automobile part optimization, it is crucial to simulate the effects of aging on reinforced polyamide (PA), according to materials supplier Domo Chemicals. Among the various factors contributing to time-related degradation of part performance, one of the most critical is contact with mixtures of water and ethylene glycol. This aspect is just as important for materials suppliers as it is for the companies designing the parts and the carmakers using them.

When calculating the final mechanical properties of a part made of glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide resin, integrative simulation offers the advantage of also taking the conversion process into account. This opens new possibilities for parts optimization. The project's goal is to achieve a significant weight reduction of around 20% for the targeted parts.

Domo's Thermofip initiative has been focusing on simulating the influence of coolants on the progressive embrittlement of materials to find new ways of making even lighter parts. The results, set to be unveiled by the end of this year, will reportedly be a game changer for carmakers by establishing:

By optimizing the simulation and use of fiber-reinforced-plastic parts exposed to water- and glycol-based coolants, Domo believes it will derive a significant competitive advantage in the automotive cooling segment.

The main economic objective of the Thermofip project is to place participants, which include Renault and Toyota, in a privileged position for competing in the automotive cooling and oil system market. The push to reduce CO2 emissions and resulting changes in engine architecture has spurred incredible growth within this market, according to Domo.

In particular, the market for active components, such as actuators and valves, is expected to triple by 2025 compared with 2018, creating huge opportunities for both parts manufacturers and plastics suppliers. In this market environment, being able to rely on an enhanced predictive simulation technology can be an important lever for gaining market share, said Domo.

More information about text formats