SABIC Announces Thermoplastic Roof Fairing

SABIC has revealed a thermoplastic fairing concept that could help fuel consumption of heavy-duty trucks by approximately 3%. The design is aerodynamically optimized to deflect air and accelerate airflow.

To create the new design, SABIC used computational fluid dynamics to evaluate and quantify the performance of the concept. It applied CFD modeling to a baseline day cab, which helped reveal where to alter the design and create an optimized product, the company states.

The company will use the findings of this project in wind tunnel and on-road testing of prototypes this summer.

“By improving the aerodynamic performance of this one application alone, fleet operators stand to save millions of dollars in fuel costs each year and over the lifetime of their entire vehicle fleet,” said Scott Fallon, general manager, Automotive, SABIC’s Innovative Plastics business. “We understand that reducing operating cost is always a priority for truck operators so we’re excited to introduce solutions like this unique roof fairing concept to help them realize that goal and address evolving needs.”

For more information, visit SABIC.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.