15.04.2013
Bumpers for trucks and heavy goods vehicles are being increasingly manufactured from thermoplastics. Unlike previous models, these bumpers are no longer produced as a single piece from sheet molding compounds (SMC). Instead, they are manufactured on a modular basis from several components, consisting of, for example, polyamide and polyester compounds from Lanxess (Leverkusen, Germany). This reportedly enables easier repair.
"The big advantage of our thermoplastics is that they offer greater design freedom and higher surface quality than SMC. They are also tougher and easier to coat. In addition, the parts do not require any post-finishing," explains Jürgen Horstmann, Key Account Manager for the truck industry at Lanxess.
The bumpers for TGX and TGS series trucks from MAN Truck & Bus AG (Munich, Germany) are molded by MEI Liberec, a production site of the Magna Exteriors & Interiors (MEI) Group located in Liberec, the Czech Republic. The bumper systems for the TGL and TGM series, meanwhile are made by Werkzeugbau Karl Krumpholz GmbH & Co.KG - Kunststofftechnik (Redwitz, Germany).