DSM launches next-gen Diablo high-temperature-resistant polyamides for engine compartment applications

18 October 2014

Royal DSM is launching its next generation of Diablo high-temperature-resistant polyamides. The new grades are part of both DSM’s Stanyl polyamide 46 and Akulon 6/66 portfolios and are aimed at applications in automotive engine compartments where temperatures can reach as high as 260 ˚C (500 ˚F).

The automotive industry’s constant drive to create more fuel-efficient designs has resulted in reduced space and higher temperatures under the hood, due in part to the inclusion of new features such as improved pedestrian impact protection and the increasing use of turbochargers and superchargers. DSM’s next-generation Diablo grades can help manufacturers by providing both long-term and short-term heat resistance.

The technology provides a significant improvement in long-term temperature resistance components such as air intake manifolds with integrated intercoolers, ducts, charge air cooler end caps, mixing tubes and resonators used in the latest car engines.

The latest version of Stanyl Diablo polyamide 46 is able to withstand a continuous use temperature of 230 °C (446 ˚F), while the new Akulon Diablo withstands a 220 °C (428 ˚F) continuous-use temperature. Both new grades have improved resistance to short-term high temperature peaks as measured by deflection temperature under load (HDT).

New Stanyl Diablo has an improved HDT of 267 °C (513 ˚F), while the new Akulon Diablo has an HDT of 245 °C (473 ˚F). The long-term heat aging and the HDT of the new materials are evidence of their superior characteristics compared to competing materials currently on the market, DSM says.

The new grades also have improved resistance to chemicals and gases in EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) systems. They have very good processing properties and create finished parts with high-burst pressure-weld-line strength as well as excellent surface finish.