Abstract
The elimination of CFC 11 in the manufacture of integral skin foam (ISF) remains a challenge for the polyurethanes industry. The use of HFA 22, which has significantly lower ozone depletion potential (ODP), is a step in the right direction but is not the ultimate solution.
HFA 123, pentane and water blowing have been evaluated as potential altematives. But each change in the Chemical system results in the need for other modifications. Integration of all these into the manufacturing process places severe pressure on the steering wheel producer, working inside increasingly stringent time constraints.
UTA-Clifford and ICI Polyurethanes recognised that further development of water-blowing technology was the preferred way forward, and that the fastest route to solve these pressing problems was through close partnership. So, a joint development programme was undertaken, using statistical design of experiment techniques.
This proved to be a powerful approach, significantly reducing development time and providing an optimum solution. Confirmation was obtained during a pre-production trial at UTA-Clifford, when a wide range of steering wheels was successfully produced. The optimised system was fully acceptable when used in combination with an in-mould coating; UTA-Clifford will introduce the technology into production in 1992.
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