URETHANES TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
Posted January 23, 2012 DETROIT (Jan. 23, 2 p.m. ET) -- Woodbridge says its StrataTRIM polyurethane composite board technology is a cost-effective, lightweight solution for many interior trim components which need high strength and good dimensional stability.
Applications include: load floors, deck lids, package trays, sun shades and seat backs. Canadian foam experts Woodbridge said this “advanced approach adds value by providing synergy between the composite board and the forming process,” allowing users to optimize material usage and performance.
“This innovation offers a new industry standard for material properties and product performance, for a growing list of interior trim applications. The composite boards used to manufacture StrataTRIM products are compatible with conventional forming processes, and are ideally matched with StrataFORM flow forming technology,” said Domenic Sinopoli, executive director of sales and general manager StrataFORM, with The Woodbridge Group.
A wide range of interior trim products can be engineered to offer significant weight and cost advantages versus rigid plastic alternatives, for example in maximising cargo management in today’s multifunctional vehicles, on display at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), Sinopoli added.
StrataTRIM advantages include: system cost savings; superior design flexibility; enhanced surface quality; improved acoustics; up to 50 percent mass reduction; glass and glass-free reinforcement options;, low cost composite tooling; shortened tool lead time; quick prototyping; and a cost-effective production option for low-volume programmes.
Woodbridge said the products are readily available across North America and more recently in China through its joint venture partner Wuxi Jixing Auto Parts Co. Ltd. The JV, Wuxi Woodbridge Jixing Advanced Polymer Technology Co. Ltd, represents the first Stratas expansion outside North America for The Woodbridge Group.
Woodbridge and its partners in The World Polyurethane Alliance operate 62 facilities in 19 countries, developing and producing products in polyurethane and expanded polypropylene. Automotive uses include components for seating, structural support, interior soft trim products, headliner systems, cargo management solutions, and engineered products for occupant protection and acoustical management.
Woodbridge also offers contract assembly and sequencing and supply chain management, as well as services including engineering and design. | 
