Royal DSM says is has developed a new application for a hydrolysis-resistant grade of its high performance bio-based polyamide, EcoPaXX. The company claims one particular grade, EcoPaXX Q-HG6/7, is suited for applications such as expansion tanks that need to resist coolants at high temperatures. DSM say it enables part weight to be cut by up to 30%.
A recently-developed thin-walled “T” connector for a coolant hose in this grade has been approved for use by a major German car manufacturer, and is scheduled to go into commercial production in the next few months. The connector needs to withstand high internal pressures at temperatures of up to 135°C.