8 AUTOMOTIVE EXTERIOR
The Automotive Exterior
Materials up to 125 °C and Exposed
to the Elements
The outer skin of a car is its interface to the world.
It takes in information and relays it to the driver, and
sends information out to other drivers. This involves
many electronic devices, which all have to stand up
to harsh environmental effects. Temperatures vary
widely and put mechanical strain on components,
solar radiation,
water and wind are ubiquitous.
Cooling is creating condensation and exposure to
moisture. Saltwater from winter roads and detergent
from car wash sites seep into slots, and dust and dirt
are ever-present.
Our products enable electronics devices to cope
challenges such as:
· Temperature variations
· UV-radiation
· Rain, snow, dust
· Salt water
· Chemicals typical for roads and cars
Each application requires specific protection properties.
We address them with a wide range of conformal
coatings (thin and thick film), potting compounds, glues
and adhesives. Materials range from hard elastomers to
soft gels, and include innovative combined chemistries
and applications.
Examples for applications in the automotive exterior
where our products are in use:
· Tire Vibration and Rotation Sensors
· Distance Sensors (e.g. LIDAR)
· Cameras
· Antennas
· Door Locking Systems
· Tire Pressure Sensors
· Parking Sensors
· Exterior Mirror Control Electronics
· Sunroofs
· Drive-in Assistance Electronics (e.g. ABS, ESR)
· Rotary Angle Sensors
CHARACTERISTICS
+ Thermal Flexibility
+ Protection Against UV Radiation
+ Salt Spray Resistance
+ Resistance to High Humidity
and Temperature Variations
(e.g. “Toyota Test”)