Technical Paper
Prediction of Thermoplastic Fender Behavior During E-coat Bake Cycle - Part 1: FEA Methodology and Problem Formulation
2010-04-12
2010-01-0232
This paper presents a Finite element analysis (FEA) methodology to predict the behavior of an automotive thermoplastic fender subjected to the e-coat paint bake cycle. Such a methodology, essential for an optimum fender design involves solution of a thermo-viscoelastic problem whose solution is not yet reported in literature. This FEA methodology employed in the early design phase would help in the development of an optimum thermoplastic fender and support strategy. It is shown with help of a case study that the efficacy of different support combinations and their effect on final fender deformations can be predicted virtually very early in the design phase. While this paper presents the methodology and its application using the example of a large body panel (BP) like fender, it can easily be applied for predicting the response of other thermoplastic parts like tailgate and tank flap during the paint cycle.