Thermoplastic Composites Lighten Transit Bus

Composites material suppliers and molders have spent many years developing and producing lightweight components for automobiles and heavy trucks, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and cost. During this period, much less attention has been devoted to mass transit applications for composites. But that is changing, as transit equipment manufacturers and governments recognize the opportunities to reduce fuel consumption and road wear, particularly for buses. This article discusses an innovative hybrid, an unreinforced thermoplastic outer skin made using low-cost thermoforming technology, backed with a structural low-density thermoplastic composite inner panel produced by low-pressure compression molding. This hybrid material was developed for use on transit buses as a result of specific industry efforts in this area sponsored by North American Bus Industries, Incorporated. The finished product meets or exceeds all requirements for fit, form, and function, exhibiting greater stiffness, improved vibration damping, and a mass reduction of nearly 40% compared to the aluminum production part.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/10834117
• Authors:
  • Brosius, Dale
• Publication Date: 2008-2

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: pp 44-47
• Serial:
  • Composites Technology
  • Volume: 14
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: Gardner Publications Incorporated
  • ISSN: 1083-4117

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Composite construction; Composite materials; Lightweight materials; Thermoplastic materials; Transit buses; Vehicle components
• Subject Areas: Public Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01091400
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 23 2008 9:23AM