WEIGHT REDUCTION USING THERMOPLASTIC CHEMICAL MATERIALS IN MOTOR VEHICLES

Selected small automotive parts are used to illustrate the possibilities for materials substitution using thermoplastics. In addition to weight reduction, any fabrication benefits are indicated. The 20 small parts which reduce a car's weight by 4135 gm (about 23 lb.) include gas cap, side mirror, outer and inner door handles, nameplate, taillight housing, headlight trim, rearview mirror, engine fan, and tank cover. The total weight of metal parts was 7392 gm; plastic counterparts weighed a total of 3257 gm.