The increasing demand for more comfort, quality and visual appeal for automotive interiors, as well as economical and environmental aspects, are the key drivers for automotive interior designers when selecting new textiles, fabrics or new decorative trim solutions.
However, some of these new materials can be difficult to bond and require advanced adhesive assembly technologies to enable customers to meet current and future interior automotive specifications.
Techsil currently supplies a range of hot melt adhesives and tapes for key Tier 1 automotive seat suppliers. One such supplier was looking for a fast assembly solution on the rear seat unit of a sport utility vehicle. The application required the bonding of the rear carpet finisher to the powder coated metal frame. The increased demand for the vehicle meant a fast curing solution was required, but not too fast as the operator needed enough time to apply the correct bead pattern to the frame to ensure maximum coverage. The customer also required a high temperature resistance, above standard hot melt EVA specifications of 60ºC to 80ºC.
Techsil 6811-43 was selected for testing after extended environmental and physical tests proved successful. Features of Techsil 6811-43 include a softening point of 150°C; a temperature resistance of 110°C; and also a flexible low temperature of -30°C (Tg).
As the vehicle build increased, a faster assembly process was required. This meant more operators in the production cell. The customer chose to install bulk melter tanks with dual hoses. Techsil was asked for a bulk version of the Techsil 6811-43 and Techsil HM27399 was developed. This bulk grade has all the same specifications and passed all of the tests. Both forms are now used on the line.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
