WHICH PLASTICS AND PROCESSES ARE TRIMMING COSTS IN DETROIT.

Simple substitution of plastics for conventional materials in car parts does not generally cut costs. But replacing multi-piece metal constructions with single-piece plastic moldings does. More versatile polymer systems which can be processed with high efficiency would also fit the cost reduction mold. Reaction-injection molding is one process which looks especially promising to automakers for reducing processing costs. Solid phase forming, commonly called stamping, as another processing technique for economically forming especially large parts. Automakers are finding that in-house molding facilities are helping to trim costs as expected. Automakers are also keeping an eye on innovative plastic materials and processes which might afford them new cost savings.