Covestro and Arcesso Dynamics Achieve Breakthrough in Washbasin Design
- Washbasin is first to be produced using reaction injection molding (RIM) on aliphatic polyurethanes
- Injection-molded material enables greater design freedom
- Can be made at least 50 percent lighter than washbasins using traditional solid-surface materials
- Washbasin is durable, repairable, and recyclable
- Haptics and antibacterial possibilities improve user experience
Covestro, a leading polymer manufacturer, and Arcesso Dynamics, a manufacturer of custom polyurethane parts, have developed a breakthrough manufacturing solution that is now being used for the first time in a washbasin designed by Alt_Bath. The unique Arfinio technology provides a combination of design freedom, low weight, and high-performance durability previously unavailable to washbasin manufacturers. Covestro will introduce the technology and showcase the washbasin at the K 2022 plastics trade show from October 19 to 26 in Düsseldorf, Germany.
Covestro and Arcesso developed Arfinio to enable manufacturers of bathroom furniture to meet a wider range of design and performance needs. By combining RIM with aliphatic polyurethanes – previously considered impossible – Arfinio merges the performance of aliphatics with a low weight, the quick production and design freedom of molded products, and the smooth appearance of a solid-surface material.
As a result, Alt_Bath’s new washbasin can be made 50 percent lighter than traditional solid-surface equivalents, and offers excellent impact and abrasion resistance, enabling a long service lifetime. Using a monomaterial means the basin can easily be repaired and recycled. Finally, the aliphatic polyurethanes deliver warm, pleasant haptics, and antibacterial additives can be added on request to enhance hygiene.
In this way, Arfinio is paving the way for manufacturers of bathroom furniture to minimize material and repair costs, and to offer more attractive, longer-lasting solutions for their customers and end-users.
Joan Miquel García Martinez, Senior Project Manager Covestro: “This washbasin shows that Arfinio can revolutionize design in multiple industries. Arfinio’s lightweight, resistant properties and quick, easy manufacturing process are ideal for bathroom furniture, which often has complex shapes and must perform well over time. Together with Arcesso, we’ll continue to develop even more Arfinio products in bathroom furniture and beyond!”
Rosa Altarriba, Cofounder Alt_Bath: “Arfinio enabled us to design a stronger, easier-to-repair washbasin, which is beautiful and pleasant to the touch. Its unique chemistry has helped us reduce our material usage while providing a more attractive product. We’re looking forward to using Arfinio to create more innovative bathroom furniture for our customers to enjoy!”
www.covestro.com
#modernplasticsindia #plasticmagazine #indianmagazine #indianplasticmagazine #modernplasticsaward #ginujoseph #modernplastic #plasticindia #plasticnews #plasticrecycling #modernplasticsglobalnetwork #modernglobalnetwok #modernplasticsaward2022 #PlasticIndustry