Friday, April 8, 2011

Chocolate bubbles inspire Ford

Those clever boffins at Ford have taken inspiration from Aero chocolate bars to produce bubble-infused plastic parts.

By injecting gas bubbles during manufacturing, the honeycomb structure MuCell plastic parts are up to 20 per cent lighter than conventional parts.

The technique improves fuel economy and emissions, without compromising durability.

There are many areas where weight can be saved by changing the type or grade of metal used to a stronger, lighter material to trim kilos from the kerb weight.

However, plastic parts are an area where it is traditionally difficult to save weight without sacrificing strength, durability or function.

Ford's latest strategy is to reduce weight in its cars while retaining high levels of equipment and strong safety ratings - and MuCell can play a part in this.

The technology will see its first application in engine covers on vehicles such as Focus, C-MAX and Grand C-MAX, S-MAX, Mondeo and Galaxy in the next few years.

Article posted by Spencer Samaroo, Managing Director, Moo-Lolly-Bar
The best online chocolate, lolly and confectionery store on the web!

If you like what you have read check out our updates on Facebook and Twitter.

Source: New Car Net


No comments: