Automative Fiberglass Headlight Housing Options

[TheMOE]

Hi all, this is my first post here, great resource...

My question is: what are my possible options if I wanted to fabricate an auto headlight housing ( minus the lens ) from a fiberglass based material ( focusing on filler and heat / UV properties. I am currently constructing a plaser mould.

Thank you in advance.
PS. I did search but with very limited results.

 

[BrianPetersen]

What kind of production volume? What's the application?

What are you going to do about the reflector, whose shape is extremely critical and has to be engineered in a very precise way?

What are you going to do about up/down adjustment?

If it's for a street vehicle, what are you going to do about compliance with applicable standards - and speaking of which, does it need to meet ECE or DOT or both?

 

[CoryPad]

Bulk molding compound (BMC) is used for series production automobiles. Use that as a term for an Internet meta-search.

 

[Compositepro]

PES is used in this application.

http://www.solvayadvancedpolymers.com/products/bybrand/radela/0,,327-2-0,00.htm

Fiber print-through affecting surface the finish will be a problem with a reinforced plastic.

 

[TheMOE]

Thank you Brian, CoryPad and Compositepro for your responses. Regarding Brian's questions: The volume is exteremly low 75-125 units. The plan is to have a pre-made suspended deflector to be mounted infront of the housing assy. using 3 adj'ble mounting pods. system would be for stricly off-road applications.

CoryPad: Very interesting material... Exact qualities I am looking for. But regarding the molding processes. Is there a low pressure, or room temp set polyester resin to subsitute the thermonset one without jeopradizing the properties ( at least heat resistance. ) ? Thank you all again.