Vi-Chem develops slipcoat for automotive-sealing systems

The Grand Rapids, Mich. manufacturer of vinyl and thermoplastic elastomer compounds and alloys said that its new Sevrene(TM) 3090-46D-8843 slipcoat technology, when used in conjunction with its proprietary line of TPEs, will provide improved performance and more cost-effective sealing.This new slipcoat, which is necessary to reduce the amount of friction on moving glass, will have the ability to withstand the long-term effects of weathering on a variety of sealing applications, including side windows, doors and trunks.

"The automotive industry continues to look to TPEs as sealing products that will perform better and last longer," explained Leonard Slott, vice president and general manager of Vi-Chem. "Slipcoats have long been a stumbling block in their search. Until now, only limited TPE technology has been available to handle the challenge of moving glass seals.

"Automakers have been pushing for a cost-effective, co-extruded system -- and that's exactly what our new slipcoat combination provides. When used with our Sevrene 2000 and 3000 Series of TPEs, the new slipcoat will offer enhanced performance that extends the life and durability of the component. We are pleased to be one of the leading developers in this emerging technology."

The Sevrene 3090 slipcoat product is a proprietary coating system which, when combined with a Sevrene TPE or other suitable TPE, exceeds original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements for friction level and durability. The use of TPEs, which are less likely than rubber to lose their resiliency over time, ensure the vehicle's seals remain tight -- and prevent noise, water and dirt from disturbing passengers. The new slipcoat is designed to be co- extruded with a TPE to provide optimal cost effectiveness.

"The co-extrusion process provides a solid bond of the slipcoat to the TPE, further enhancing the life of the part," said William K. Greer, sales and marketing manager. "The resulting Sevrene TPE system provides better long- term compression set and weathering capability when compared against the EPDM rubber currently being used, so the car-buying customer ends up with a better vehicle."