Tricon takes innovation to new level with MuCell (R)

DETROIT, March 4, 2002 — Tricon Industries, Inc. is showcasing how it helps customers cut costs and reduce component weight while enhancing product quality - all by using the Trexel MuCell® microcellular foam injection molding technology on display at Tricon's 2002 SAE World Congress booth #129.

"Reduced material volume and cycle time are just two MuCell® advantages leading to cost savings and higher productivity that Tricon delivers to customers," said Jeff Terrell, Tricon manager of product development. "In addition, the process can eliminate stress, warpage and sink marks, which can improve part reliability."

MuCell®'s enhanced material flow characteristics allow Tricon designers to produce intricate parts with thinner walls and lower molded-in stresses. Uses for this technology could be extensive in applications where handling delicate components is a serious issue. For example, MuCell® further improves Tricon's ability to develop dependable and durable components, such as smart connectors, that require excellent mold flow to completely encapsulate intricate circuits without damaging them.

"Smart connectors can help in the transition to 42-volt vehicles by incorporating an integral converter that allows 42-volt power distribution while also allowing the continued use of 14-volt loads," said Terrell.

MuCell® parts can contain up to 15 percent less material than parts produced through conventional methods with minimal effects on its properties. MuCell® technology injects plastic with carbon dioxide or nitrogen, forming billions of microscopic bubbles within the thermoplastic to cut cycle time by up to 30 percent.

About Trexel

Trexel is the exclusive developer of the MuCell® microcellular process technology and has an extensive portfolio of patents in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia. Trexel's primary business is licensing the MuCell® technology to injection molders, extruders, and blow molders. It also provides world-class engineering support, training and other services to licensees, and supports them with equipment and components integral to the MuCell® process. In support of these activities, Trexel operates a plastics development laboratory in its Woburn, Mass., facility.

About Tricon

Tricon Industries, Inc. specializes in insert molding and specialized components for worldwide automotive, mobile communications and appliance markets. Tricon was one of the first in the industry to use insert-molding techniques for the manufacture of switch and relay components as well as other electrically-oriented parts.