A structural RIM (SRIM) bumper beam has been prototyped which is able to withstand 5 m.p.h. pendulum and barrier impact requirements without an additional energy absorber (EA). The performance level of this beam is due to a novel design, a high-elongation resin system, and a directed chopped fiber (DCF) preform. The behavior of this advanced bumper beam is contrasted with the Dodge Viper SRIM bumper beam which utilizes an expanded polypropylene (EPP) energy absorber. The new prototype beams reduce the cost and weight of SRIM bumper systems.
