EMEA
Automotive

Ultramid® Expand – Expand your ideas!

Granulate Foam Component
Granulate Foam Component

Different bead sizes that fit your requirements: 1-3 mm

Ultramid® Expand

Ultramid Expand® is a particle foam by BASF that is based on a combination of several polyamide 6 grades. The particle foam consists of pre-foamed particles with a defined particle size and density, which can be welded into a 3D component without generating foam waste in a molding machine. The component has isotropic foam properties, i.e. the same mechanical properties in all directions. A chemical reaction does not take place in the foam.

The particle foam excels with a wide range of unique characteristics: high temperature-resistance, outstanding stiffness and strength as well as an excellent chemical resistance, e.g. in contact with fuels, oils and lubricants. Additionally, the closed cell foam structure offers an exceptional compressive strength, a requirement for the use in crash relevant components that are exposed to high mechanical demands. Because of this versatility, lightweight applications are possible as well.

Key features of the Ultramid® Expand particle foam:
  • High heat deflection temperature
  • High temperature resistance 
  • Excellent mechanical properties at temperature >120°C 
  • Chemical resistance against automotive liquids
  • Drop-in solution in EPP tooling (steam chest molding) 
  • Recyclability 
  • Simulation models available 
  • Processable via e-coating
BASF continues its long tradition of developing particle foams. We started this project in close co-operation with our customers and now they are able to successfully produce various parts. The material can be effortlessly processed on conventional EPP-molding machines as well as with innovative water steam free technologies. 
René_Holschuh.jpg

René Holschuh

Segment Manager Transportation, BASF Performance Materials Europe

BASF’s Ultramid® grades are molding compounds on the basis of PA6, PA66 and various co-polyamides such as PA66/6. The range also includes PA6/10 and semi-aromatic polyamides. The molding compounds are available unreinforced, reinforced with glass fibers or minerals and also reinforced with long-glass fibers for special applications. Ultramid® is noted for its high mechanical strength, stiffness and thermal stability. In addition, Ultramid® offers good toughness at low temperatures, favorable sliding friction behavior and can be processed without any problems.

Technical features

Simulation

Support for application development is a key competence of BASF Simulation Engineering. Whenever necessary, numerical methods are used to predict processability and final performance of a part. This enables a complete virtual design optimization before any tool is built. 

Consult with an expert

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