The use of plastic in the exterior construction of automobiles has been on a steady rise, driven by the industry’s push towards lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles and to reduce manufacturing cost. Where does that leave the repair shop?
Plastics make up less than 10 per cent of a vehicle’s weight but account for approximately 50% of volume. Over the last 10-years, the average mass of plastics in an automobile increased by 16 per cent. The modern refinish professional needs to not just work in metal but also be skilled in the repair of plastic components.
The special problems of plastic component repairs
Cosmetic repairs to plastic bumper bars and superficial damage to other plastic components in cars present several challenges requiring specialised knowledge:
Material Variety: Cars use a range of plastic types, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and others. Each requires different repair methods.
Adhesion Difficulties: Plastics have non-porous surfaces, making it hard for fillers and paints to adhere. Special treatments or adhesion promoters are often needed.
Thermal Expansion: Plastics expand and contract with temperature changes.
Release Agents: During manufacturing, release agents are used to help plastic parts come out of their molds. These agents persist well after manufacture and can interfere with repairs.
PLASTX 6 – engineered specifically for automotive plastics
U-pol is a productivity solutions provider for automotive refinish professionals, and for over 75 years has developed every product needed for panel preparation including plastics.
U-pol’s leading productivity solution for cosmetic plastic repair is PLASTX 6.
PLASTX 6 is a game-changer. This highly flexible body filler has been meticulously engineered to tackle the challenges presented by plastic components, particularly those notorious bumper scuffs, scratches, and other superficial damage that require a strong but flexible filler.
Formulated for flexibility
The chemical engineers at U-pol (who like working on cars) developed a unique blend of high-quality European resins giving PLASTX 6 filler remarkable flexibility once cured.
Unlike standard fillers that are strong but rigid, PLASTX 6 introduces a level of pliability that’s essential for modern automotive plastics like Polypropylene, EPDM, or ABS.
Why flexibility matters
Flexibility is not just a buzzword; it’s a critical attribute in the repair of plastic automotive parts.
Standard fillers lack the ability to flex, leading to potential cracking or detachment under stress. PLASTX 6, however, can roll with the punches – quite literally. If you apply PLASTX 6 on paper, it can roll up without cracking, demonstrating the product’s adaptability in real-world conditions.
Addressing superficial damage
PLASTX 6 shines when addressing cosmetic repairs and superficial damage such as scratches, scrapes, dings, and holes up to 2-3 cm – the everyday wear and tear inflicted by errant shopping trolleys or car park bollards.
Its excellent feather edge properties ensure a seamless blend with the surrounding material, while its high adhesion prevents future detachment or flaking.
Optimum adhesion
Applying PLASTX 6 is straightforward. Begin by sanding down the surface to the bare plastic, ensuring both front and back sides are prepped. Apply a primer such as U-pol Grip#4 Universal Adhesion Promoter to create an optimal surface adhesion and fill with PLASTX 6. Once PLASTX 6 is in place, mesh tape reinforces the repair from behind, followed by sanding and the application of heat to cure. Curing is relatively quick at 30 minutes.
Engineered for plastics
During the manufacturing of bumper bars, release agents are added to facilitate the removal of the component from its mold. These agents can be reactivated during the repair process, especially when excessive heat is generated through sanding. This reactivation can impede the adhesion of primers and paints.
PLASTX 6’s resin blend circumvents this issue through innovative chemical engineering, thus maintaining the integrity of the repair and subsequent paintwork.
A versatile solution
PLASTX 6 is not just for extensive workshop repairs; it’s an invaluable asset for superficial damage, mobile smart repairs, and any automotive repair shop dedicated to perfection. Its ease of use, coupled with quick curing times, makes it an ideal choice for professionals who value both quality and efficiency.
The verdict from the trade
Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Car refinish professionals appreciate the product’s ability to deliver a flexible, durable repair that lasts. PLASTX 6 has proven itself as a reliable alternative to SMC for harder plastics, offering a higher grade of flexibility where it’s needed most.
For more information contact U-pol’s Technical Support Team on (02) 4731 2655 or leading automotive refinish products distributor.