Plastics Continue to Invade Cars Under the HoodPlastics Continue to Invade Cars Under the Hood

High-performance polymers have been making inroads in high-heat, under-hood car environments for awhile now. At some recent industry events, DuPont Performance Polymers showed off several new parts made of polymers designed for these uses.

In collaboration with DuPont and powertrain system and component supplier ElringKlinger, Daimler AG developed a series of structural engine brackets made of DuPont Zytel PA66 resin. The brackets must support engine torque stresses and high static loads, and this optimized grade of Zytel PA (polyamide) -- a glass fiber-reinforced, heat-stabilized nylon -- can replace standard die-cast aluminum. It combines strength, stiffness, low heat conductivity compared to metals, and resistance to creep, deformation and fatigue to stand up to load and stress. It also absorbs noise, vibration, and harshness.