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ExxonMobil Chemical Introduces New FEA Database for Santoprene Specialty Products in Semi-Dynamic Applications


Technical data invaluable in aiding modeling and design

AKRON, OHIO [January 24, 2007] – ExxonMobil Chemical has introduced a new finite element analysis (FEA) database for Santoprene™ specialty products for semi-dynamic applications. Meanwhile, the database for static applications that has been available for over 15 years has been updated. Both sets of data are invaluable for modeling Santoprene thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) as they can help predict the behavior of non-linear elastomer materials.

“Because TPE materials exhibit non-linear characteristics and components made from these materials are often designed to experience high non-linear strains, they present certain challenges when modeling. Using genuine real-world test data is the basis on which accurate simulation can be achieved. With about 300 grades of Santoprene TPEs, these databases represent a significant investment and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to improving elastomer modeling and design,” explained Thierry Burton, worldwide design supervisor ExxonMobil Chemical’s Santoprene specialty products.

Knowing which database to use is very important and completely application dependent. If the application is actuated numerous times over its life, then the semi-dynamic data is applicable. ”Using the wrong dataset could result in over- or under-predicting the mechanical behavior of the application by 25% or more. We believe it’s important to provide cyclic data as many applications exhibit semi-dynamic or dynamic behavior and the cyclic model provides much more accurate predictions. When combining this data with our extensive data on stress relaxation, the design engineer has the tools to more accurately predict dynamic application performances over the life of the part,” said Ward Narhi senior design engineer, ExxonMobil Chemical’s Santoprene specialty products. 

The new FEA database for semi-dynamic applications initially starts at 23°C.  This data was obtained by cycles of loading-unloading in the three modes of deformation - tension, compression and shear - up to the attainment of steady-state conditions which are met after a minimum of three to five cycles of deformation. These are used by design engineers in the structural analysis of semi-dynamic applications, like most weatherseals. Test data for Santoprene rubber grade 101-80 is available on the website, while information relating to other grades can be obtained via the Santoprene AnswerPersonSM service (1-330-849-5272 or 1-800-305-8070.)

Available to designers for many years, the FEA database for static application has been fully upgraded and is available on the website. Data from testing at 23°C of all standard Santoprene TPE grades from 35 Shore A to 50 Shore D have been made available in a three page document with information related to constraints in tension and compression. FEA material models are available to design engineers, as well as the strain range of fittings with graphs. Some data at temperatures lower and higher than 23°C are also available on request from the AnswerPerson.


About Santoprene™ specialty products
Santoprene™ specialty products, produced by affiliates of ExxonMobil Chemical, are recyclable elastomers commonly used in appliance, automotive, consumer goods, plumbing, and other applications. ExxonMobil Chemical’s Santoprene specialty products are the global leader in engineered TPEs, materials with the performance of rubber and the processing ease of plastic. Santoprene products are part of a broad portfolio of elastomers from ExxonMobil Chemical providing innovative elastomeric solutions combined with global support service in material selection, design, processing, and supply chain management, plastics technology, product quality and customer service with marketing operations in more than 150 countries around the world. For more information visit www.santoprene.com and www.exxonmobilchemical.com.


Note to Editors:
1. Santoprene is a trademark of an Exxon Mobil Corporation affiliate.

2. The term "ExxonMobil Chemical" refers collectively to some or all of the companies affiliated with Exxon Mobil Corporation which have chemical manufacturing and/or marketing operations around the world.

3. Further information on engineered thermoplastic elastomers and vulcanizates can be obtained from www.santoprene.com .

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