FORD Recognizes Extol Contribution

Plastics Decorating

Extol, Inc., a Zeeland, Michigan, provider of plastics-joining solutions, was named by Ford in the safety category at the 44th Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Automotive Innovation Awards Competition & Gala in Livonia, Michigan.

Ford Motor Co. was recognized for its Active Glove Box product in the safety category. This new system uses an injection-molded plastic bladder (instead of the typical fabric airbag) attached with hot-plate welding to the glove box door. Ford worked closely with Extol to develop the hot-plate weld tooling and was cited as the toolmaker responsible.

The unique design provides protection for passengers in a smaller, lighter package while providing more interior space for increased comfort. The Active Glove Box is currently in the 2015 Mustang and is supplied by Faurecia. Advanced Composites Inc. and Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. supply the materials.

For more information, visit www.extolinc.com.