DSM Engineering Plastics have announced the introduction of Akulon® UltraflowTM with added gloss. The new grades will have improved surface finish, even with glass fiber loadings as high as 60%.

Charlie Costello, Automotive Manager for Greater China, DSM Engineering Plastics: “One of the common issues with high glass fiber loadings in polyamide 6 is the surface appearance. We discussed with some key customers on the benefits if they were offered our Akulon Ultraflow grades with added gloss and surface aesthetics. The demand was very encouraging. We took this comment to our research and technology department. With the proprietary technology that evolved in making these special grades, we have achieved surfaces that are resin rich, show no glass marks, and aesthetically are superior to what we see in the market from competition. Getting high quality surface appearances without painting is now possible with these special grades.”

Jan Waninge, Sales and Marketing Director, DSM Engineering Plastics Asia Pacific: “DSM as a company focuses on market driven innovations in polymer chemistry and compounding technology in engineering plastics. Half a decade back we introduced Akulon Ultraflow, a polyamide 6 with excellent flow and very high glass fiber loadings to replace conventional metals in structural applications where a high modulus material is needed. With this new innovation, we add new value to customers through process simplifications and costs. Initial trials with this grade in China, India and Europe have been successful. As of now this is a developmental grade but we will commercialize it for all customers over the next few months.”