Industries such as automotive, medical technology and optics are increasingly turning to polymer solutions without additional hard coatings. As a development partner, EMS plays a key role with its high-performance polymers. Innovative, scratch-resistant solutions based on Grilamid TR eliminate the need for painting, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. As a result, more and more OEMs are adopting these solutions, particularly for decorative components in vehicle interiors.
The development of an air vent with a high-gloss decorative cover without painting is a strong example of a successful development partnership.
Industries such as automotive, medical technology and optics are increasingly turning to polymer solutions without additional hard coatings. As a development partner, EMS plays a key role with its high-performance polymers. Innovative, scratch-resistant solutions based on Grilamid TR eliminate the need for painting, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. As a result, more and more OEMs are adopting these solutions, particularly for decorative components in vehicle interiors.
The development of an air vent with a high-gloss decorative cover without painting is a strong example of a successful development partnership. The customer was looking for an alternative to a coated plastic – and EMS-GRIVORY’s high-performance polymers proved to be the ideal solution. By coloring transparent polyamides from the Grilamid TR family, a high-gloss surface with a depth effect is achieved. At the same time, the material provides high resistance to scratches, chemicals, and UV exposure. This eliminates the need for additional functional coatings, significantly reducing component costs.
During the development process, EMS supported the customer in surface design, customized color matching and the ramp-up of series production. In addition to cost savings, reducing the CO₂ footprint is another key success factor. Eliminating the painting process saves energy, lowering the product’s CO₂ footprint by around 30%.
The solution also enables a high degree of design freedom. In the case of the air vent, the tool was designed so that, in a single injection molding process, one half of the component has a high-gloss finish while the other has a matte appearance. This contrast creates a modern, high-quality look through the interplay of light reflection and absorption.
In summary, thanks to close development collaboration, EMS was able to help the customer achieve significant cost savings while also reducing the CO₂ footprint.
