Thermoplastic encapsulation of delicate electrical components and electronic devices such as solenoids, sensors, self-supporting coils, transformers and motors can cut manufacturing costs and at the same time package and protect those components from harsh automotive environments.
Encapsulation with Thermoplastics Can Lower Overall Piece Cost
On a weight basis, thermoset encapsulants and potting compounds may be less expensive than thermoplastics. But any cost comparison between materials types should be based on “finished encapsulated parts” ready for shipment. Savings in faster molding cycles, lower WIP, consolidated production floor-space, higher product yields, and fewer secondary operations generally favor thermoplastic encapsulation.
This is particularly true in high-volume components where mounting brackets and connectors also may be molded in during the encapsulation step as value-added features. If high performance in smaller, lighter and less-costly designs is appealing, then thermoplastic encapsulation may be right for you. Another productivity solution from DuPont.