Composite panels target RV expansion
An
Owens Corning product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Dec 1, 2004
A novel all-composite exterior panel offers significant weight savings for manufacturers of recreational vehicles.
Offering RV manufacturers an exterior panel that is 20% lighter than traditional materials with exceptional durability, Owens Corning Fabwel today introduced the CTEC panel at the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association's National RV Show in Louisville, Kentucky.
The all-composite CTEC panel reduces total vehicle weight, thereby increasing cargo carrying capacity and allowing design engineers to differentiate vehicles by incorporating more features and amenities.
Key to its performance advantages, the patent-pending CTEC panel is composed of layers of Owens Corning glass-fibre reinforcements and polyester resins rather than traditional metals or composite-wood laminates.
Unlike traditional wood composite panels, the all-composite CTEC panel will not absorb water, which can add to the overall weight of the vehicle.
Another prime advantage the CTEC panel affords manufacturers is a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Engineered to be free of board lines or voids, the panel exhibits a smoother, high-gloss automotive finish that performs exceptionally well with dark colours and graphics.
"The performance and aesthetic benefits of the CTEC panel give manufacturers exciting new options to differentiate their vehicles", said Chuck Jerasa, General Manager, Owens Corning Fabwel.
"For example, the total weight reduction achieved through the lighter panel frees design engineers to incorporate more features and amenities such as televisions or tile flooring instead of vinyl".
"Our panel literally opens up a whole new field of options to manufacturers - allowing them to think in exciting new ways".
The unique construction of the CTEC panel also provides: high strength and durability to withstand extreme weather and road conditions - resists the impact caused by flying road debris resulting in fewer dents and cracks; and easy maintenance - the high gloss exterior can be maintained simply by normal waxing.
"RVing is becoming increasingly popular - in fact, some analysts have projected that annual RV-industry sales will rise 6 to 10% over the next five years".
"As more people spend more time in these 'homes away from home' it's natural that they're demanding better quality and more features", said Jerasa.
"The CTEC panel is just one example of the ways that OC Fabwel is helping manufacturers exceed buyers' expectations".
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