Casting

On April 17, Huntsman announced a new lightweight, durable SHOKLESS polyurethane foam technology to the company’s battery solutions portfolio that has been developed for the potting and fixation of cells mounted in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. New technologies will be officially unveiled at the Battery Show Europe in June 2024.

The product family includes a range of low to high-density foams that can be used via common polyurethane dispensing processes and can offer a wide processing window for extra handling flexibility. These new solutions can help provide thermal as well as structural protection at a cell, module, or pack level combined with fast processability compared to non-polyurethane alternatives.

It can offer very good compression and tensile performance with high elongation to failure. Elastic performance can remain stable at different operating temperatures ranging from -35ºC to 80ºC. SHOKLESS polyurethane systems are generally compatible with several different manufacturing methods such as open- and closed-pour (injection) and cold-cure molding.

Based on Huntsman press release

On March 15, ElringKlinger AG announced that Daimler Truck, ElringKlinger, ENGEL AUSTRIA - Wir sind ENGEL, ThermHex Waben GmbH, edevis GmbH, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS have produced a storage compartment flap for a truck interior in sandwich construction in a recently completed project.

The flap, made from thermoplastic sandwich semi-finished products, demonstrates the enormous potential for saving weight with thermoplastic sandwich molding technology and its suitability both for molded components and for use in large-scale production. Such sandwich structures consist of highly rigid and strong cover layers and a lightweight core.

It enables potential weight savings of up to 70% compared to monolithic structures, with a load-bearing capacity of the components that correspond to or even exceeds that of metallic components. 

Based on ElringKlinger AG social media updates 

On March 19, ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF) announced the adoption of the 3D Spark platform, an innovative B2B manufacturing and procurement software, to simplify and democratize the process of fabricating parts using 3D printing technology. The platform is developed by 3D Spark GmbH. 

The platform provides an integrated approach to the entire part order workflow from request to quote. This enables users to gain instant insights into CAD design suitability, manufacturability, optimization possibilities, cost breakdown, and CO2 footprint for every in-house production option. This includes all industrially relevant AM technologies covering polymer, metal, and ceramics, as well as milling, turning, metal casting, and injection molding, enabling a Digital Factory Twin. 

The implementation of the 3D Spark platform has yielded remarkable benefits for ZF, including a 50% reduction in time required for analyzing part manufacturability and writing quotes, whilst increasing accuracy and trustworthiness by 25%.

Based on 3D Spark GmbH press release