Written on 21.06.2011 - Technology
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Polyurethane glass encapsulation technology for panorama windscreens

The windshield of the Opel Astra GTC extends 1.5 m from the hood to the B-pillar, which amounts to more than a third of the vehicle’s total length. According to the manufacturer, the Panorama GTC is just as strong as the three-door vehicle with a steel roof. One reason for so much light and space are the light-stable Colo-Fast systems from BASF Polyurethanes.

Opel Astra GTC with Colo-Fast WST glass encapsulation

In places in the Opel Astra GTC where, on other cars, the field of vision is delimited by steel and fabric, there is glass. Because the panoramic windshield extends from the end of the hood to well behind the front-seats, passengers can see more of the world than in any other series-produced car – including convertibles, says the company.

For decades in applications around the world, the Colo-Fast systems from BASF Polyurethanes have proven effective as a glass encapsulation material and are in use with many leading manufacturers of glass panes and modules. With Colo-Fast-WST (Window Spray Technology), BASF now also has an innovative system for pressureless application to glass in an open mould. This flush glazing technology is only possible with polyurethane. The result is glass and panorama roofs with flush seals and glass panes. Bonded or extruded profiles, on the other hand, have design drawbacks and are more susceptible to dirt, says the company. WST technology offers greater design freedom, a reaction time of less than 45 s, reduced reworking, and also lower investment costs, according to BASF.

Splifar in Belgium is the first company to be granted a license by BASF for Colo-Fast-WST technology and to invest in a production installation. Production with this light-stable PU system has been underway since the end of 2010.

After taking over the window encapsulation business from Recticel in 2009, BASF initiated the development of a Colo-Fast system series in line with the latest requirements of REACH. These systems have been undergoing successful launch in Europe and Asia since the end of 2010.

The sights are now set on the next projects: large, complex windows (of laminated or toughened safety glass) for cars and commercial vehicles with Colo-Fast-WST technology and, for 2011, concrete plans for a windshield for a truck manufacturer.

In addition to the automotive industry, a growth market for Colo-Fast WST technology includes the solar industry. The possibility of producing integrated flush photovoltaic panels and solar collectors with it improves water management of the roof, i. e. prevents moisture penetration, and counteracts dirt accumulation by improving rainwater run-off. Furthermore, Colo-Fast protects the edges of panels and collectors from breakage during shipment and installation.