Germany
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Plastic-metal hybrid technology
These structural components (polymer-metal hybrids, PMH) offer a high rigidity with low weight while fulfilling the required crash performance. The load path-based design allows additional metal components made of magnesium, aluminum or steel to be inserted into areas subject to high stresses. For the Hydroforming-Hybrid process (HFH), ElringKlinger uses a combination tool that brings together internal high-pressure forming of metal profiles and plastics injection-molding in just one process step. The plastic injection-molding process makes it very easy to integrate additional functions, such as local fixation point. Product examples include cockpit cross beams, front end carriers and front end adapters.
The advantages
- Excellent weight/performance ratio
- Load path-based design
- Functional integration
- Short cycle times, high degree of automation
- No reworking required
- High process stability and repeatability
- Global standards
Cockpit cross beams from ElringKlinger combine maximum functionality with minimum weight. The support structure accommodates the instrument panel, steering column, heating and ventilation modules, airbags and other components and connects them securely to the chassis.
