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RTP Company (Winona, MN, US), a leading global compounder of custom engineered thermoplastics, announced May 3 the development of new light and tough (LT) Compounds, a series of thermoplastic compounds that weigh 5 - 10% less than typical filled compounds, but with equivalent mechanical properties and similar shrinkage values. 

According to company representatives, LT Compounds are the fastest and easiest way to accomplish weight reductions in parts molded with glass fiber reinforcement without compromising performance or requiring modifications to existing tools. “Our LT Compounds can be drop-in replacements without the cost burden associated with other options to reduce weight,” says Jason Kafader, structural product manager at RTP Company. 

Unlike chemical foaming agents, the density reduction provided by LT Compounds is not dependent on wall thickness; furthermore, aesthetically pleasing parts are achievable with LT Compounds, which is not always the case with chemical foaming. Since LT Compounds are often able to be used as a drop-in solution with existing tooling, the switch from other materials can be a smooth and economical transition.           

“LT Compounds from RTP Company are best used as lightweight alternatives when the goal is to minimize energy consumption or the amount of human effort required to use the part,” says Kafader. “This makes them an ideal material for handheld, battery-operated tools, sporting goods, handheld appliances, recreational vehicles and other common markets for glass fiber reinforced compounds that will benefit from reductions in weight.”