Technical moulded components: automotive series components

Taracell is specialised in the cost-efficient development and serial production of back-foamed automotive components made of particle foam. Automotive components engineered with back-foam technology can be covered with various materials (foils, leather, artificial leather, textiles).

Because of their excellent impact resilience and thus their high level of cushioning, back-foamed components are primarily used for safety-related interior components. Combined with the low weight of EPP and its excellent acoustic and insulating properties, there are a number of possible applications for automotive engineering.

Airbag cover, back-foamed EPP moulded component

A-pillar, back-foamed material, EPP moulded component with foamed clips

Crashpad, metal sheet insert EPP back-foamed (knee pad)

Instrument panel, moulded component made of EPP, back-foamed textile

Door trim, door mirror, back-foamed laminate, made of EPP

Material

EPP
Expanded polypropylene

PS/PE
Expanded copolymer polystyrene/polyethylene

PPE/PS
Expanded copolymer polystyrene/polyphenylene ether

PS/PMS
Expanded copolymer polystyrene/polymethyl styrene

Material properties as a PDF file ►

Expanded polypropylene, or EPP for short, is the preferred manufacturing material for the production of safety-related automotive components. The high elasticity of the material and its excellent impact resilience ensure that energy is absorbed in the event of a crash. Because automotive components made from EPP have a low net weight but high durability, they also reduce the amount of fuel consumed.

EPP is a green material
EPP contains no VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
EPP contains no ozone-depleting substances
EPP is 100% reusable and recyclable
EPP contains no heavy metals

Tests

Back-foamed automotive components from Taracell are tested by neutral testing institutes.

Textile-specific tests

UV resistance
Scratch resistance
Abrasion resistance
Cleanability

Compound-specific tests

Fogging
Odour
Grip of the upper fabric
Climate change test
Heat ageing

Safety tests

Head impact
Euro NCAP

References

Taracell is a long-term production partner of well-known automobile manufacturers and suppliers. At our production facilities in Künten (Switzerland) and Burnhaupt-le-Haut (France) we develop and manufacture automotive components made of EPP.