IKV demonstrates the versatility of plastics at the RWTH Science Night ‘5 to 12’
At this year’s ‘5 to 12’ science night, the IKV once again presented a vivid insight into the world of plastics processing in the C.A.R.L. foyer. Under the motto ‘Perfectly formed – each part features an individual process’, employees of the institute demonstrated how different manufacturing processes can be – and how precisely they must be tailored to the requirements of the respective component.
A model car shows how thermoforming works
The focus of the IKV contribution was the body of a model car made of polystyrene. Visitors were able to experience live which process steps are necessary for thermoforming:
- Heating the plastic sheet
- Deformation over the model tool due to negative pressure
- Cooling and acceptance of the finished component
It was explained why polystyrene – due to its good thermoformability, rigidity and surface quality – is particularly suitable for such applications.
© IKV
© IKV
© IKV
© IKV
© IKV
© IKV
© IKVHands-on plastics technology
The interactive presentation provided a practical introduction to the interplay between materials, processes and component design. Many guests asked questions about the specific properties of thermoforming materials, the energy efficiency of the process and current developments in plastics technology.
The scientists at the IKV stand provided answers to the question of how different processing methods can be used specifically to combine function, design and cost-effectiveness. The model car served as a tangible example of how IKV conveys research content vividly and makes it accessible to a wide audience.