Upper Door Trim and Armrests: Dividing the Work Between PP and PC/ABS

Requirements by zone

The lower substrate carries only self-weight and incidental contact, so PP-TD20 suffices; the upper zone runs hotter under sun load and is usually wrapped or grained, favouring PP+EPDM or PC/ABS.

Armrests take frequent load, with screw bosses and clips under sustained stress, where PC/ABS creeps far less than PP.

Where PC/ABS is specified

Typical locations include armrest frames, trim around the grab handle, console inserts and air vent bezels. They share higher heat requirements — HDT above 100 °C — sustained load and elevated cosmetic standards.

Light grey natural grades are commonly used where secondary processing or an integral natural finish is required.

Balancing cost

Making the whole panel from PC/ABS adds noticeable cost and weight. Standard practice is zoning: PP for the body, PC/ABS in demanding areas, joined by wrapping or assembly.

That in turn asks the supplier for advice on linking the two systems, including shrinkage matching and joining method.