Dow Chemical, MVP introduce polyurethane-enabled LRTM process

Materials science company Dow Chemical Co. (Midland, Mich., U.S. and Horgen Switzerland) and Magnum Venus Products (MVP, Knoxville, Tenn., U.S.), a global manufacturer of fluid movement and production solutions for industrial applications, introduce a new polyurethane-enabled chemistry delivered by a three-component injection system using a Fast Flow Light RTM (LRTM) process. This process for closed molding increases part production by decreasing injection times. The new technique is a blend of MVP’s Flex Molding Process and LRTM, and uses collapsible resin channels for a faster resin flow.

“Our Fast Flow LRTM process draws from years of experience as a leader in closed molding and blends techniques to deliver faster, more efficient part production,” Joan Tracy, director of international sales for MVP, emphasizes. “The process was brought about by the need to meet faster cure times for large parts using high-viscosity resins such as fire-retardant materials.”

Next-generation LRTM is the outcome of the collaboration between Dow and MVP, applying new polyurethane-based solutions to cutting-edge machine processes. The process is reported to present a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional RTM, or closed molding process, due to the minimal tooling structure required and material efficiencies. In fact, the polyurethanes system is produced with between 20-25% bio-based materials (as per DIN EN 16785-1 standards). Thanks to the polyurethane’s high toughness level, MVP says less material is needed to reach the same mechanical properties as with conventional solutions, creating more durable, longer-lasting and lighter vehicle components.

“Our novel polyurethane systems solution provides superior aesthetic properties and better industrial hygiene profile versus incumbent resins in use,” Francesca Pignagnoli, commercial director Industrial Markets Europe, Dow Polyurethanes, adds.“Our new LRTM application is compatible with MVP’s Fast Flow LRTM using a new three-component system designed to meter/mix and dispense low to high volumes of resin.”

MVP’s Fast Flow injection system was designed for the use of larger molds while maintaining high reactivity, reducing the curing time and therefore the cycle time.