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Constellium develops high-strength aluminum crash-management systems.

Issued at 2014-03-05



Constellium N.V., Amsterdam, has launched  high-strength aluminum crash management systems (CMS) for the front and the rear of a vehicle. Its innovative technology, based on its expertise in both extrusion and rolling techniques, enables the production of aluminum CMS that are 15% lighter and 10% stronger than current aluminum CMS on the market.

These  new-generation CMS combine the properties of the 6xxx aluminum alloy family – formability, corrosion resistance, energy absorption, recyclability – with high-strength mechanical performance.

"We believe that this technology combined with advanced design and manufacturing capabilities will result in higher performance and cost efficiency," said Paul Warton, President of Constellium's Automotive Structures and Industry business unit. 

Automotive sector analysts expect the use of aluminum CMS to increase in the next five years, particularly in European premium cars. By 2018, aluminum CMS are projected to capture about 30% of total European automotive market share. In the United States, aluminum CMS are expected to account for nearly 20%  market share by 2018. Combined aluminum CMS production for China, Europe, and North America is expected to reach more than 28 million units by 2018.

Constellium's CMS technology was developed through cutting-edge research at its R&D Center in Voreppe, France, testing at its industrial sites, and in close collaboration with its automotive customers.

www.constellium.com


Source: ASM International



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