Ebusco selects Telene composite parts for its Ebusco 3.0 citybus

Ebusco – a pioneer in its own field – early on recognized the necessity of a lightweight bus structure and in close collaboration with Pondus Operations developed the composite Body in White for the Ebusco 3.0. Telene®composites offered various advantages for its body panels. Two parts were selected to confirm benefits, such as increased productivity, robust mechanical properties and lower total cost of ownership.

HP-RTM with conventional matrix systems is considered an attractive production technology allowing for short cycle times (below 5 minutes) for complex composites parts. High pressure (60 – 150 bars) injection equipment is required for short injection times so as high tonnage presses with heavy and expensive molds.

Very low viscosity of Telene® resin systems (10 mPa.s) achieve similar injection and cycle times but at low injection pressures. Direct benefit is a significant threshold reduction, making fast-RTM technology accessible for electrical buses or vehicles produced in smaller series than typical automotive applications.

Ebusco 3.0 parts are roughly 2m wide and respectively 55 and 35cm wide at a thickness of 3mm. Injection time for these parts is less than 40 seconds at 60°C, (3 kg of resin) with pressures under 10 bars. Cycle time is less than 5 minutes. Note this was achieved for the initial parts without any further optimization. Post-cure is done at 130°C.These parts show superior damage tolerance, providing longer part life and reducing repair or replacement costs. Additional advantages are lower weight and no need for release agents. Lower density of Telene® matrix when compared to epoxy and polyurethane results in lower part weight.

Edwin van Herpt, Director R&T – Composites at Pondus Operations:

“The Telene team has exceeded our expectations in delivering the first Telene® composite parts for Ebusco 3.0. We are discussing additional parts thanks to the multiple advantages Telene® composites offer.”