Powdertech TiZr for structural bonding in innovative electric vehicle
Within the recently launched lightweight commercial vehicle from Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC), our optimised TiZr passivation is used to enhance adhesive bonding for the lightweight aluminium chassis.
On lightweight aluminium, Powdertech TiZr passivation matches anodising for enhanced adhesive bonding strength. Read our technical paper and case study.
TiZr for enhanced structural bonding, in preference to anodising
Optimised TiZr passivation of the aluminium enables strong and repeatable bonding of the high strength aluminium adhesive, delivering a rigid core structure.
WEVC has used TiZr for this vehicle build, in preference to anodising, as it enhances adhesive bonding to the same degree, and uses less energy. The stable layer formed is also suitable for welding.
Innovation in the build
Lightweighting is key. A unique vehicle architecture, the PACES platform, is formed from lightweight aluminium extrusions.
The extrusions interlock and bond together using a patented innovation known as FlexTech®.
This is the first commercial electric vehicle to be using recycled aluminium for its chassis build.
The battery base plate utilises another Powdertech Surface Science process - PowderBond - an adhesive-free surface treatment to bond polypropylene composite material to aluminium. PowderBond has been used to create a lightweight, strong and rigid 'sandwich' laminate of aluminium and composite material for the fully integrated structural battery case. For more on PowderBond visit https://www.powderbond.co.uk/