Testing Regimes for the Non-Metal Cars Parts Materials

The auto industry is witnessing a surge in the use of non-metal materials. This trend is fueled by advancements in material processing technology and the potential benefits these materials offer.

 
However, this increased use of non-metal materials comes with a new set of challenges. Unlike traditional metals, non-metal materials can emit hazardous substances or be susceptible to factors like condensation and gas permeability. These factors can negatively impact factors such as driver safety, comfort, and overall car performance.To address these concerns, the development of corresponding test methods, standards, and instruments is crucial.

Ensuring Clear Visibility: Fogging Test

Interior car materials, such as plastics, textiles, and adhesives, can emit volatile substances when heated. These substances can condense on the windshield, reducing visibility and creating a safety hazard.

The fogging test helps assess this fogging property. Labthink FT-F1 fogging tester is professionally designed for the fogging characteristics evaluation of volatile constituents of decorating materials used in cars and aircrafts, e.g. plastic articles, polyurethane, textiles, leather, adhesives, nonwovens and thermal forming elastomers at high temperature conditions. It also could be used for the fogging phenomenon test of high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps of cars.

Breathable Comfort: Seat Material Permeability Testing

Long journeys can leave drivers feeling sweaty and uncomfortable. To ensure passenger comfort, seat materials need to be breathable and allow for proper moisture transfer.

The gas permeability test measures the transmission rate of gas through the seat material. Similarly, the water vapor permeability test assesses how effectively the material allows moisture to pass through. These tests ensure that drivers stay cool and comfortable during extended car trips.

Labthink C360M Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test System, is designed and manufactured based on the gravimetric determination method and conforms to the requirements of ASTM E96. This instrument can be used to measure the water vapor transmission rate of barrier materials with high, medium and lower moisture barrier properties with a wide testing range and high testing efficiency.

Maintaining Air Pressure: Inner Tube and Airbag Testing

Both car inner tubes and airbags require good gas barrier properties. Inner tubes need to maintain inflation pressure for long periods, while airbags need to inflate rapidly during a collision and retain pressure to provide protection.

Traditional testing methods for these components involve inflating them and monitoring pressure loss over time. However, these methods can be time-consuming, taking up to a year to obtain results. Modern testing instruments, like the Labthink VAC-V2 gas permeability tester, can significantly improve testing efficiency by measuring gas transmission through material samples in a much shorter timeframe.

Conclusion

The growing use of non-metal materials in automobiles presents exciting opportunities for car design and performance. However, ensuring the safety and quality of these materials requires rigorous testing procedures. By implementing these tests, the auto industry can leverage the full potential of non-metal materials while guaranteeing a safe and comfortable driving experience.

As the demand for functional packaging materials grows, testing methods are evolving to ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of packaging films. Labthink encourages collaboration with packaging industry companies for quality control! Visit the website www.labthink.com to learn more!