Foamed components in automotive interiors – new possibilities thanks CERAfoam

In foam injection moulding, surface defects (known as foam or silver streaks) typically occur on the component surface, which limit or prevent the use of the technology for design surfaces in visible areas.  The advantages of the thermoplastic foam injection moulding (TSG), such as weight reduction, simpler component design and more homogeneous surface finish, cannot be utilised for a wide range of applications. CERAFoam offers a simple solution here: by applying a thin ceramic coating incorporating design surfaces developed to the customer’s specifications, the foaming process can be controlled in such a way as to suppress foam streaks (see image). A further development of the technology also enables its use on conventionally grained surfaces – whether laser-textured or chemically etched. This opens a broader range of applications.