HEICO-FORM

Combined materials for integrated functions.

Metal-plastic components combine the strength and load-bearing capacity of a cold-forged metal part with the versatile properties of engineering plastics. Precise cold-forged metal parts can be used as the metal base, which are then supplemented – for example, by overmoulding with plastic – to form a functional composite component. Specific geometries such as grooves, knurling or undercuts enable a secure, form-fit connection between the two materials. In this way, fastening, guidance, insulation, sealing or other functions can be combined in a single component. The precision-manufactured metal component creates defined interfaces for subsequent assembly and plastics processing. At the same time, cold extrusion offers high material utilisation and is suitable for cost-effective series production. Depending on requirements, the metal components can also be heat-treated or coated prior to the composite process. Metal-plastic parts are used in particular in the automotive industry, electrical engineering and other technical applications. By combining different manufacturing technologies, components with high functional density and reduced assembly effort can be developed. This results in customised composite solutions in which metal and plastic specifically fulfil their respective roles within the assembly.