Evonik Helps DIAN Racing of Tongji University Win Formula Student China Championship
- Flame-retardant PA12 powder for 3D printing and lightweight foam materials from Evonik were used to manufacture the body and components of the championship-winning car
- The team’s outstanding performance demonstrated the many advantages of additive manufacturing in automotive applications
- Continued support for university students’ innovative practice in automotive design and manufacturing
The 2020 Formula Student China competition recently concluded in Xiangyang, Hubei Province, with the DIAN Racing electric team from the School of Automotive Studies at Tongji University winning the overall championship in the electric category. As a team sponsor, Evonik provided INFINAM® PA 6004 P flame-retardant PA12 powder for 3D printing and ROHACELL® lightweight foam materials for manufacturing the body and components of the brand-new DIAN Racing 2020 car. Evonik also provided technical guidance to the team during the design process.
In designing the new car for the 2020 Formula Student Electric China competition, the DIAN Racing team members synthesized numerous ideas and decided to use ROHACELL® ultra-lightweight rigid foam for the body manufacturing. They also proposed using flame-retardant PA12 material and 3D printing technology to produce parts such as the battery module frame and controller housing structures. 3D-printed components not only enable the design and manufacture of complex structures but also effectively reduce vehicle weight, offering advantages in processing time and cost.
After thoroughly understanding the team’s design concepts, Evonik promptly developed a corresponding product solution. The high-strength, highly flame-retardant, and high-precision INFINAM® PA 6004 P product was the optimal choice. This material was used to manufacture multiple components of the DIAN Racing 2020 car, including battery components, electronic control systems, aerodynamic body kits, and cooling systems. For example, the 3D-printed module frame achieved an overall weight reduction of 1,000 grams, met V0 flame retardancy standards, and provided excellent protection for the battery cells; the aerodynamic kit keel achieved a 15% weight reduction for that component while maintaining good mechanical and fatigue resistance properties; the battery box front compartment featured a complex layout, excellent flame retardancy, and good mechanical properties.
Mr. Hong Fuchao, Product Line Director of Evonik’s High Performance Polymers Functional Materials, stated: “Evonik has a long-standing cooperation with DIAN Racing of Tongji University. The team has previously used ROHACELL® materials in their racing car body designs. This year, we expanded our collaboration to include 3D-printed components. The team’s outstanding performance demonstrates the many advantages of additive manufacturing in automotive applications, including manufacturing efficiency, lightweight design, and performance optimization. In the future, we look forward to even closer collaboration with the team to explore more possibilities for material applications.”
DIAN Racing is a Formula Student electric team from Tongji University in Shanghai, focusing on designing and manufacturing high-specification electric racing cars and participating in international Formula Student competitions. Evonik has sponsored DIAN Racing since 2016 to further explore product applications and support the innovative practice of the younger generation in automotive design and manufacturing. In this collaboration, Evonik provides industry knowledge and relevant materials, while the team is responsible for creative development.
About Evonik
Evonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The company is active in more than 100 countries around the world and generated sales of €13.1 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €2.15 billion in fiscal 2019. Evonik goes far beyond chemistry to create innovative, profitable and sustainable solutions for customers. More than 32,000 employees work together for a common purpose: We want to improve life, today and tomorrow.
The Asia-Pacific region is both a key driver of the global economy and a vital source of innovation. Evonik is committed to growing its business here. In fiscal 2019, the company generated sales of €2.87 billion in Asia-Pacific and has over 5,000 employees at more than 50 production sites.
Disclaimer
Insofar as forecasts or expectations are expressed in this press release or where our statements concern the future, these forecasts, expectations or statements may involve known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or developments may vary, depending on changes in the operating environment. Neither Evonik Industries AG nor its group companies assume an obligation to update the forecasts, expectations or statements contained in this release.