Selecting the correct material is crucial when it comes to car parts, especially considering the varying conditions they must endure. Many components of a car, even those not directly in the engine, can be subjected to significant heat, particularly when parked in the sun. This article will guide you through understanding material limitations based on temperature for different Parts Of Car, ensuring longevity and reliability.
One common misconception is the suitability of Polylactic Acid (PLA) for automotive applications. While PLA is a popular 3D printing material due to its ease of use and biodegradability, it falls short when exposed to heat. Consider a scenario where a sun visor hinge pin, 3D printed from PLA, deformed after just one day in the sun, even in moderate temperatures around 29°C (85°F). This illustrates PLA’s weakness: it’s simply not designed for environments where temperatures can exceed 50°C (122°F). For critical parts of car, especially those in the interior or exterior exposed to sunlight, PLA is not a viable option.
For more durable and heat-resistant parts of car, materials like Nylon (Polyamide, PA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), and various high-temperature co-polymers are much better choices. Even Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG), an improvement over PLA in heat resistance, can still deform under intense heat within a car. For components requiring structural integrity and resistance to higher temperatures, especially load-bearing parts of car, these alternative materials are essential.
To provide a clearer picture of temperature thresholds for different materials used in parts of car, here’s a general guideline:
- Basic Co-Polymers: Suitable up to approximately 70°C (158°F).
- ABS: Withstands temperatures up to around 85°C (185°F).
- Enhanced Co-Polymers and Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA): Can handle temperatures up to about 100°C (212°F).
- Polypropylene (PP): Offers resistance up to roughly 105°C (221°F).
- Polycarbonate (PC): Provides higher heat resistance, up to approximately 110°C (230°F).
In conclusion, when selecting materials for parts of car, always prioritize temperature resistance, particularly for components that may be exposed to direct sunlight or high ambient temperatures. While PLA may be suitable for prototyping or interior parts of car not subjected to stress or heat, for most automotive applications, opting for materials like Nylon, ABS, or other high-temperature polymers will ensure the durability and functionality of your car parts.
