TABLE OF CONTENTS The consumption of thermoplastics and thermoplastic composites is controlled by:
user market demand
the ability to adapt these materials to economic and technical market requirements and to propose technological advancements
the capacity for innovation in terms of materials and processes
the adaptability to environmental constraints: recycling, sustainable matrices and reinforcements.
The purpose of this exploratory study is to provide some background information on these various points.
Apart from exceptional cases, any manufacturer is subject to general regulations induced by the economics of competition, customers' rights and requirements, and the legislative arsenal.
Figure 7.1 points out some of the main market constraints.
While the majority of these points speak for themselves, others need to be restated.
Cost prices are optimized by reductions in:
the number of parts necessary to satisfy all the functions
raw material costs
part weights
investments
payroll
scrap
manufacturing costs
finishing costs
joining and assembly costs.
Customers' requirements, changing fashions and technological developments involve a shortening of product life cycles. So, the manufacturers turn to materials that allow fast and economic design and easy adaptation of the production equipment.
The extension of warranty periods is viable only if the performance and the durability of the product make it technically possible.
This depends on:
the costs in energy, process fluids and others
maintenance expenses: simplification of maintenance and cleaning; reduction of repair and restoration...
