Although automotive and industrial tubes and hoses vary widely, ranging from
vacuum brake tubing and pneumatic tubing to hydraulic hoses, they all have
something in common – they can benefit from the use of Arnitel thermoplastic
copolymer-based elastomer (TPC) from DSM Engineering Plastics. This unique
material combines the strength and processability of thermoplastics with the
flexibility of a thermoset rubber – without the need for vulcanization.
Arnitel TPC grades enhance design freedom, deliver a range of desirable
properties for demanding automotive and industrial environments, and can
reduce processing and system costs.
In the automotive sector, Arnitel offers improved heat resistance (up to
200°C) compared to polyamides (PA11 and PA12), which can lose their stiffness
and even collapse at high temperatures. Unlike these polyamides, Arnitel TPC
also provides flexibility without the need for plasticizers and the resistance
to high pressures at high temperatures. Other important properties are good
resistance to chemicals and oils, and superior fitting retention. Arnitel
meets the strict industry regulations. Typical automotive applications include
vacuum brake tubing, air brake tubing, fuel tubing and convoluted tubing.
For industrial applications, Arnitel provides a broad range of grades which
have proven to be ideal for hydraulic hoses. As a replacement for nitrile
rubber in the core, Arnitel TPCs provide a smoother inner surface, superior
flexibility and better hot oil resistance. This means that fluids are easier
to pump while the hoses are easier to handle and have a longer service life.
Used as an outer layer, Arnitel shows great impact resistance and excellent
flexibility. The DSM materials can also be used for pneumatic tubing. In the
rubber industry, mandrels manufactured using Arnitel are widely used for
rubber hoses during the curing process in autoclaves.
Arnitel is proven to deliver system-cost efficiency due to weight reduction ,
integration of functions and reduction of overall process cycle time.
Paul Habets, the Arnitel Product Manager from DSM Engineering Plastics Europe
said, “In addition to its performance and processing benefits, Arnitel is an
environmentally responsible alternative to traditional cross-linked rubber and
materials such as polyamides that use plasticizers such as potentially harmful
phthalates. As thermoplastics, our TPCs can be recycled, and the use of
regrind is possible. With Arnitel TPCs, manufacturers have better material
choices for a wide range of automotive and industrial tubes and hoses.”
More information on Arnitel in Tubes & Hoses:
www.arnitel-proven-flexibility.com.
