Propellant Systems and Additives

The blowing agent systems developed by TRAMACO, which are marketed under the brand name TRACEL®, act as chemical, endothermic, or exothermic blowing and nucleating agents. When heat is applied, gas is generated, which dissolves in the polymer and causes the plastic to foam.

Blowing agent systems can be used in a wide variety of plastics and are particularly well-suited for applications in injection molding and extrusion. In addition to foaming—and the resulting weight reduction and material savings in the injection molding process—the use of TRACEL® offers other interesting advantages, such as:

» Reduction of sink marks in the part
» Reduction of warpage (especially in large parts)
» Improved flow/reduction of melt temperature
» Reduction of cycle time
» Surface effects (visual/tactile)

Thermoplastic foam injection molding (TSG) using chemical blowing agents can be performed on standard injection molding machines. Compared to standard injection molding, only a shut-off nozzle is required, and it is recommended to use molds with a higher chromium content (at least 13–15% Cr).

In addition to conventional blowing agents, TRAMACO has also developed green blowing agents with bio-based and biodegradable carrier materials and added them to its product portfolio. These are particularly well-suited for use in bioplastics.

In addition to blowing agents, TRAMACO also develops and markets other additives such as lubricants and mold release agents (TRASIL & TRASLIP), antistatic agents (TRAPOR & TRASTATIC), and UV stabilizers (TRASTAB).