ALPHARETTA, Ga., July 26 , 2011 – Fuel line quick connectors from TI Automotive, Auburn Hills, Mich., a leading global automotive supplier of fluid storage, carrying, and delivery technology, are injection molded of Amodel® polyphthalamide (PPA) resin from Solvay Advanced Polymers, LLC, a Solvay Specialty Polymers company, for superior heat resistance, improved chemical resistance, and lower vapor permeation. Conductive and non-conductive grades of Amodel PPA deliver significantly higher heat resistance and better chemical performance than incumbent nylon 12 grades.

The growing trend toward production of smaller cars with tighter under-hood packaging, reduced air flow, and hotter environments has resulted in the need for higher performing materials, according to Jim Kerin, advanced technology manager for TI Automotive. “Amodel PPA provides a unique property profile because it is a natural barrier material that provides high thermal resistance and doesn’t swell,” said Kerin. The quick connectors serve as an interface to mating components throughout the fuel system.

Amodel AT-1116 HS withstands temperatures up to 170°C (338°F) and eliminates the need for a heat shield. The material exceeds the SAE J2044 temperature rating (-40°C to 125°C for 14 days, -40°F to 257°F for 14 days). It also offers exceptional chemical resistance to zinc chloride, calcium chloride, and a wide range of biofuels including biodiesel and ethanols (E85 and E100).

TI Automotive’s primary quick connector product – the TI Loc (with verifier and redundant latch) – is sold to North American car makers including GM, Ford, and Chrysler. There are also designs in Europe at BMW and Opel with a rapid migration to the Asia-Pacific region. Within the last year, another product – a TI Loc vapor connector with sensor – has been approved by Chrysler for Fiat.

About TI Automotive

Fluid thinking™ shapes the mindset of TI Automotive. Global automotive manufacturers turn to TI Automotive for insight and focus to develop industry-changing fluid storage, transfer, and delivery technology. With 18,500 employees at 130 locations in 28 countries, their strength lies in their ability to creatively meet and exceed the increasing fuel economy and emissions regulations of tomorrow’s auto industry. More information is available at (248) 494-5000 or visit www.tiautomotive.com.

Press Contact:
Joseph Grande
413.684.2463
solvayap.press@solvay.com