Copolymers open the door for tactile nonslip grips

Feb. 5, 2004
Two acetal copolymers that resist wear and impact are keys to success for a high-visibility automotive door handle.

Gecom Corp., a first-tier automotive supplier from Greensburg Ind. chose Celcon acetal copolymers for the inside door handles it makes for the U.S. assembly plant of a Japanese automaker. The auto door handle, actuator rod, and pivot shaft are molded from acetal copolymers and held in a polypropylene case.

The copolymers sport a range of good-looking finishes that match vehicle interiors. The copolymers also provide a tactile grip and strength to withstand the repeated stress of many car door openings and closings.

An impact-resistant Celcon acetal copolymer from Ticona, Summit N.J., forms the 3.5-in. (90-mm) long handle. It pivots about its widest part located two inches (51 mm) from the free end. A plastic shaft of Celcon M90 acetal copolymer slips through a hole in the handle to form the axis around which the handle rotates. The acetal copolymer's lubricity and low wear create handles that will operate smoothly for years.

A second hole in the handles is for a rod that actuates the door-lock release. Celcon M90 acetal copolymer is also used to snap-link the actuator rod to the handle and to hold the pivot shaft in place. Both handle and pivot sit in a polypropylene case.

The molding tool for the handle has two slides to accommodate holes in the handle. The tool is textured to give the parts a somewhat pitted, sandblasted surface so drivers and passengers get a firmer, nonslip grip when opening the door.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!