DSM’s Arnitel thermoplastic copolyester (TPC) material was recognized as this year’s runner-up for innovation in the Enabling Technology category during the 2019 Altair Enlighten Awards at the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars, Traverse City, Mich., USA, 5 August 2019. 

The Arnitel duct replaced a thermoset rubber component, significantly reducing the weight, cost and design complexity of the vehicle’s turbocharger system.

“We’re truly honored by the recognition from this group of distinguished judges,” said Jud Gibson, vice president, Commercial Americas, DSM Engineering Materials. “It’s a credit to strong partnership and collaboration of the global team that made this project a reality.”

Arnitel was a unique fit for the application’s requirements, which included the flexibility necessary to create the duct’s complex shape, as well as the strength to tolerate peak temperatures from 160°C -180°C. This was made possible through careful formulation of Arnitel’s multiblock structure, which includes hard segments for mechanical strength soft segments that deliver rubber-like elasticity, impact strength and thermo-oxidative stability.

The Altair Enlighten Award is intended to honor the greatest achievements in vehicle weight savings each year. It inspires interest from industry, engineering, policymakers, educators, students and the public, creates further competition for new ideas in the industry, and provides an incentive to share technological advances. The award offers nominees the chance to be recognized internationally as a leading figure in the effort to reduce vehicle weight and meet emissions targets.

To learn more about the special properties and versatility of DSM’s Arnitel material, visit DSM.com/Arnitel.