|
|
Plastics
|
This is an attempt to collect together information on the plastics used in the 350Z. Specifically, I was interested in just what is required to modify things like the front bumper and side skirts since in classic hot rodding the idea was to express yourself by doing something different . .or at least .. in your way . .not just purchasing off the shelf items. The problem is that this was sheet metal and offered the opportunity to do this kind of .. magic.
This is a work in progress. I will be posting methods to repair/mod the plastics used in the 350Z.
|
 |
 |
Plastics fall into two broad groups, Thermoplastics and Thermosets.
Thermoplastics : Those which are heated and injected. These processes require expensive molds. A mold for a bumper fascia may run
$500,000. This means that Thermoplastics are best suited for mass production - to spread the cost to the manufacturer. Common types of Thermoplastics
are Polypropylene, Polyethylene, ABS (Acrylonitrite Butadiene Styrene), Polycarbonate, Nylon (polyamide) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). The most
common plastics used on vehicles are Thermoplastics.
Thermosets : These are cast, usually from two components mixed together. These are used for very large parts, or low-volume, limited
run parts since the equipment required is vastly less expensive. Fiberglass and CF fall into this category since these are Thermosets with a filler.
Common types of Thermosets are Epoxy, Urethane and Polyester.
Bumper fascias : Automobile bumpers are made from (for the most part .. 99%) of one of three plastics; Thermoset polyurethane,
thermoplastic olefin, and Xenoy. Approximately 75-80% of the bumper fascias are made from thermoplastic polypropylene (TPO) with the remainder
thermoset urethanes and a small amount of Xenoy.
350Z bumper fascia: The Z's bumper is made from Thermoplastic Olefin. This is described as 'semi-flexible, gray or black in color.
It melts and smears when grinding and has a waxy surface feel.' The photo shows the bumper labeled >PP+EPM-T15<. Specifically, the 350Z bumper
fascia is made from Polypropylene [a polyolefin - 'oily plastic'] (PP) + an elastomer [a synthetic rubber] (EPM). Many adhesives have a hard time
with polyolefins since they have low surface energy - meaning the adhesives would rather stick to themselves then the 'oily plastic'. You can improve
the adhesion by using an adhesion promoter or surface modifier prior to using the adhesive (normally a two-part epoxy or urethane adhesive)
350Z Interior plastics: PP:
|
© 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 eTraxx.com |
|
