Feb 23/24
An Overview of PUR Overmolding for Vehicles
Vehicle interiors are evolving rapidly to meet the demands of modern consumers. Car buyers want their vehicles to be comfortable, personalized, and connected.
Automotive manufacturing is also evolving to create this next generation of vehicle interiors. PUR overmolding is one technique enabling the manufacture of cabins that prioritize the driver experience. From dashboard panels to the steering wheel, PUR overmolding is an efficient solution.
Learn more about PUR overmolding and how this automotive manufacturing technique can give you an advantage.
What Is PUR Overmolding?
Polyurethane (PUR) is a thermoplastic elastomer commonly used in plastic molding. Overmolding is a type of plastic injection molding. Also known as, two-shot molding because it has two steps.
The first step is molding the base substrate. After the base cools and is partially hardened, a softer plastic elastomer is bonded on top.
Molding the two layers in the same production cycle is cost-effective. Resulting in, making the bond between the elastomer and the substrate stronger. This is because the base is only semi-cured, so the elastomer adheres better.
Automotive Applications for PUR Overmolding
PUR overmolding is well-suited for automotive interiors. Common applications include:
- Door panels
- Dashboard panels
- Handles
- Knobs and other controls
Overmolding can create two-tone components. In-mold decoration is also possible. The parts are durable, which is essential for vehicle components.
Advantages of Overmolding
Overmolding has several advantages for automotive manufacturing. Therefore, you can manufacture components with multiple materials or colors more easily.
PUR overmolding can be very cost-effective. The process uses fewer personnel hours than methods that require transferring the part to another mold or machine.
Production is more streamlined. As a result, components are manufactured together and don’t require a separate assembly phase.
Benefits of Polyurethane for Automotive Molding
Polyurethane is a popular choice in automotive manufacturing for several reasons. It has very high abrasion resistance. It resists impacts and tearing.
Polyurethane can withstand water, oil, and grease. It maintains its performance in extreme temperatures. It’s a lightweight material.
During the manufacturing process, polyurethane can bond strongly to many types of materials. Therefore, this makes it well-suited for overmolding.
Polyurethane will take a variety of color pigments. You can include designs on the surface like a logo or brand name.
You can give a polyurethane surface more grip or slip by changing the grade of the material. Changing the thickness provides different levels of softness. These characteristics are important for components like the steering wheel, gear shift knobs, and handles.
You can use polyurethane to reduce glare, which is very important for dashboards. Polyurethane reduces noise and vibration.
Choosing the Right Partner for PUR Overmolding
PUR overmolding has many advantages for automotive manufacturing. Therefore, it streamlines the production process for interior components.
Polyurethane is durable. It offers options for the look and feel of the finished product.
PUR overmolding is one of the types of molding Mayco International offers. Our Art-to-Part services will take your idea to a finished product more efficiently. We’re a Tier 1 automotive supplier for interior and exterior systems and modules.
Mayco can help you stay on the cutting edge of automotive technology. So, request a quote from Mayco International today to see what our molding options can do for your project.