4. Properties, markets and applications

4.1 Sandwich structures for automotive lightweighting

A sandwich sheet such as Usilight ^® (steel/polymer (between 0.3 and 0.8 mm)/steel) significantly reduces the weight of parts subjected to flexural/torsional stress (weight savings of up to 35% compared with conventional steel solutions). A sandwich structure can thus significantly increase the product's inertia without weighing it down. Usilight ^® can typically be used to make trim or closure parts (hood, headliner, door panel, etc.), body-in-white parts (upper transom, roof rail, etc.), underbody parts (spare wheel well), non-welded structural panels, seat structures, battery tray supports, etc.

In the automotive...