INTERMEDIATE-TEMPERATURE EPOXY BOARD FOR FIXTURES
To quickly machine accurate, heat-resistant fixtures for securely holding metal automotive hood, trunk and door parts during induction curing, Robotron Corporation relies on Ren Shape(tm) 5005 epoxy board, supplied by Ciba Specialty Chemicals, which can withstand exposure to elevated temperatures up to 250øF and exhibits the strength required to endure repeated installation and removal of parts being cured on the nest. Robotron has its nests machined by Wolverine Products which starts by bonding together a series of 60" long x 24" wide x 4" boards to build up a machinable block. Dan Schweiger explains, "The 4" thick epoxy boards help expedite production of the large fixtures we machine." A typical nest measures about 65" long x 45" wide by 18" high. After boards are bonded together and cured, machinists make roughing cuts using carbide inserted, one" ball-nosed cutters, finishing passes are made at 2,500 to 3,500 RPM and for profile cuts, a 4-flute, 1" end mill is typically used. To finish nests, Wolverine paints the sides with a high-temperature enamel. Fixtures are then mounted on aluminum base plates and delivered to Robotron.

For more information, contact Bill Geresy, Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporation, 4917 Dawn Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823-5691, 517-324-1349.