Consumables
Borealis unveils the first PP matching the glossy aesthetic effects of ABS
Thursday 09. April 2009 - Borealis, a leading provider of innovative, value creating plastics solutions, unveils the first polypropylene (PP) for the appliance industry that delivers the high gloss benefits of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and meets manufacturers demands for increased productivity.
Borcom BG055AI offers up to a 6% reduction in cycle times, new energy-saving opportunities and performance advantages for aesthetic parts used in dishwashers, washing machines and spin dryers.
Borcom BG055AI is the first polypropylene (PP) microcomposite capable of matching the glossy aesthetics of ABS – the traditional material of choice for visible white goods parts such as control panels, front draws and baseboards. The high flow, low density grade, which contains up to a 10% selected micro-scale filler, was developed by Borealis at the international Innovation Headquarters in Linz, Austria, specifically to address manufacturers needs for alternative, added-value material solutions for these applications.
Borcom BG055AI opens up new production efficiency possibilities without compromising on aesthetics. Formulated with a lower density (0.92 kg/m3) and a higher melt flow rate (MFR) than standard ABS, its high fluidity allows faster cycle times at lower injection pressure. This potential for a significant 6% cycle time reduction is complemented by lower energy consumption through the need for less injection pressure during moulding. Machine tonnage can be reduced as a result of the low density/less pressure combination, with both the environment and production-cost benefits from less energy use.
In addition to an outstanding high gloss appearance, parts made from Borcom BG055AI offer high impact resistance and stiffness that ensures long-term durability with repeated use.
“The white goods sector is highly competitive and is continually looking to increase productivity and reduce cost,” comments Gianni Avalle, Application Marketing Manager, Borealis Business Unit Moulding. “As a leading supplier of PP to the appliance industry Borealis is committed to helping manufacturers stay competitive and offer consumer products that add convenience and comfort to everyday life. Borcom BG055AI with its aesthetic and production-related benefits addresses these challenges, making it the first PP capable of providing a valid alternative to ABS.”