Moplen Resin Replaces Steel in Leading Industrial Cleaning Equipment
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, January 11, 2010 – A high-performance polypropylene (PP) resin from LyondellBasell Industries has been selected for the production of a new series of industrial cleaning equipment by Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG, the world’s leading producer of cleaning equipment. Moplen EP240T is being used to produce the chassis of the company’s new midclass and high-end range of hot water high-pressure cleaners. The new chassis represents Kärcher’s first use of a polymer in the application, which traditionally has been produced using steel. Compared to standard PP resins, Moplen EP240T offers a unique balance of advanced mechanical properties, including high flowability, impact strength and chemical resistance. Kärcher’s cleaning equipment is used to clean automotive engines, agricultural and industrial machinery and therefore the cleaner application required a resin that could stand up to the rigors of outdoor environments. Moplen EP240T resin, which meets Kärcher’s demanding requirements for the finished parts, is being used to produce six models in the series. “The PP resin from LyondellBasell has already proven its suitability in a variety of other Kärcher applications, due to its outstanding melt-flow rate (MFR), impact resistance and stiffness required for demanding applications such as industrial cleaners,” said Gaßmann. The manufacturing process at Kärcher also required a resin with improved weldability. “Kärcher uses the latest infrared-welding technology, and due to the well balanced polymer structure, Moplen EP240T is suitable for this processing method,” added Schneider. Before the cleaner entered mass production, the Moplen grade had to pass Kärcher’s numerous stringent test methods. “As a producer of high-end units, the materials we use must withstand challenging tests,” added Gaßmann. “Moplen EP240T PP resin delivered good results in terms of elongation, impact resistance at -20°C, and density. By using the lowest-density polymer available, we were able to save costs.” “This application success clearly illustrates PP’s ability to continuously deliver innovative and versatile solutions,” said Paul Turner, vice president of LyondellBasell’s polypropylene business in Europe. According to Gaßmann, “We are very excited about the potential of this new and improved cleaner. The unit meets specific consumer needs for all uses, and thanks to the number of innovations realized in the application, our relaunched series has become the benchmark in terms of cleaning performance, mobility and environmental protection.” Note for editorial offices: Press photographs can be also downloaded from http://lyondellbasell.mediaroom.com/file.php/276/HDS_Cleaner_Moplen.tif Photo Caption:
LyondellBasell Industries is one of the world’s largest polymers, petrochemicals and fuels companies. We are the global leader in polyolefins technology, production and marketing; a pioneer in propylene oxide and derivatives; and a significant producer of fuels and refined products, including biofuels. Through research and development, LyondellBasell develops innovative materials and technologies that deliver exceptional customer value and products that improve quality of life for people around the world. LyondellBasell (www.lyondellbasell.com) is privately owned by ProChemie GmbH, a joint venture of Access Industries and ProChemie Holding Ltd.
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