The plastic caps for the automotive industry are a fundamental element of the system because they fit into the vital parts of the vehicle and protect its components.
For this reason, whether they are standard or personalized, stoppers must be assessed and chosen with extreme care, considering shape, size, functionality, and even the material they are made of. Plastic, in particular, has many advantages including a wide flexibility of use which does not affect too much the final costs of those who are involved in finishing a system or making a replacement.
In this article, we will illustrate to you why it is better to choose plastic caps for the automotive and pneumatic industries, and what are the different types available.
Plastic caps for automotive and pneumatics: what types are available?
All automotive and pneumatic components as well as systems, such as cooling or fuel systems, are designed down to the smallest detail so that the vehicle functions perfectly, smoothly and safely.
Often the focus is on large components, such as the gearbox or brakes. Yet, among the fundamental elements that ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle, we also certainly find the plastic caps and plugs. These are elements that protect and seal car parts and pneumatic systems during production, assembling and transportation. Caps and plugs can be used at every stage of the process; but which ones are most commonly used?
Types of automotive plastic caps
Automotive plastic caps are very important and can be used in different ways. You can choose between:
- radiator (and expansion tank) caps for the cooling system
- caps for the engine oil and differential, for the lubrication system
- caps for the power steering system, for the pump and compensation tank
- caps for the fuel system, fuel tank and air filter
- caps for catalytic converters and silencers, for the exhaust system
- caps for the brake fluid reservoir, for the braking system.
Ideally, focus on quick-fit products for fast application and removal. But let’s take a look at the specific caps to be used as required and some practical examples of use.
Caps for powertrain, fuel system, HVAC and steering system
Caps useful in the automotive sector include various models including conical, flange or flangeless, or dust caps. They are all essential for protecting the circuits of conventional, hybrid and electric cars. Placed firmly on components and connectors, they prevent water, dust, dirt and other debris from ruining them and even damaging the car. Examples include:
- cylindrical undercaps with a tab, to safeguard electrical connectors, preventing water ingress
- SAE flange cover with a tab, to preserve an engine component.
Caps and guards preserve valves, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and the power steering pump. They can also protect the fuel tank, preventing risky leaks and compromising the system as well as the vehicle itself.
Caps for the braking system and electrical components
Here are some types of caps and BMP TAPPI products to consider for preserving the braking system and electrical components:
- flexible under-cap, to preserve the characteristics of the braking system
- spiral sleeve, to collect the wires neatly and safely
- cross ties, to secure, bundle and organise cables, hoses and other components
Chassis and bodywork caps
Aesthetically rather than functionally, the aesthetic cover caps are useful to close any holes made during assembling or to safeguard the vehicle’s wheel bolts. To be assessed:
- caps for painting, to protect the bodywork and other vehicle elements during finishing, even at high temperatures
- cap for holes in PVC sheet metal, to ensure a clean appearance and cover sharp edges
- cap for holes in sheet metal for cable routing, to protect wires and cables, preventing damage
- standard cable ties, for grouping and organising components – such as wires and cables – ensuring stability
- pressure rivets, to join the sub-bumper to the front bumper.
In addition, flange caps can be recommended for storage and transport. The caps, which are easy to insert and remove, can protect the vehicle from dirt, dust, rain, moisture and corrosion.
Types of caps for pneumatics
Similarly, in automotive pneumatics caps are very important because they are attached to valves to maintain the right tyre pressure and ensure maximum driving safety.
So for pneumatics you can evaluate these plastic caps:
- valve caps
- plastic caps.
The latter are all caps that, as far as pneumatics are concerned, perform several functions. For example, they protect the rubber from the accumulation of dirt that can build up inside the valve and prevent pressure loss. Plastic caps and plugs safeguard exposed elements from the outside and secure vital components of brake systems. In addition, when screwed onto the tyre valves, they keep the tyres intact at the right pressure.
Why are there different plastic caps and plugs for every function and sector
Every sector needs caps, plugs and guards that are specific to its use. This means that plastic components for the medical sector may not be suitable for the automotive market. Or that caps used for painting and masking may perhaps not be reusable for the protection of parts during transport.
In fact, caps and plugs are specially designed to meet certain requirements in the processing area. Some products, for example, have to withstand high temperatures, others have to withstand temperature fluctuations, and others have to be completely attached to an element. The shape, materials and dimensions are carefully evaluated to meet certain standards and needs. The risk of using caps and protectors other than those suggested for the market in which one operates is that of compromising the machine during finishing, use, sealing or transport.
Which plastic do you prefer for automotive plastic caps?
In the automotive and pneumatics sector, different types of plastics can be considered. For example, to protect holes during finishing, the following can be evaluated:
- the EPDM washer cap, resistant up to 170°C, recommended for sandblasting
- the silicone washer cap, resistant up to 315°C, ideal for masking.
In addition, eco-friendly caps can be evaluated to protect engine parts, external or internal components (improving aesthetics). These are caps and protectors chosen especially by those who want to support the environment and the circular economy.
Would you like to learn more about sustainable plastics?
Find out what PCR plastics are
Why is the use of plastic caps so important?
The plastic caps are used in various industrial fields. The automotive sector is one of these: a sector in which safety and maximum efficiency cannot be lacking.
Going into more detail, they are important on four levels:
- Protection. They contribute fundamentally to reducing the risk of leaks and contamination that can endanger the functionality of the vehicle. Furthermore, they regulate the flows of the systems correctly.
- Efficiency. They seal the systems and prevent any leakage of liquids (such as oil and fuel).
- Safety. They protect systems and prevent any liquid (or pressure) leaks. This way the vehicle is safe.
- Aesthetics. Useful to enhance the vehicle and protect any exposed delicate parts of the vehicle.
Why choose plastic as a cap material?
The plugs for the automotive and pneumatics (as well as for other sectors) can be made in different materials, such as metal alloys, rubber, and plastic.
In particular, plastic is recommended because, in addition to offering quality and efficiency, it has numerous advantages:
- it is light and resistant
- it is easy to work with and transform into the desired shapes and sizes
- it has a low cost
The lightness and great flexibility make plastic one of the most suitable materials for the production of pressure and customized caps. Products to be adapted to each vehicle to improve performance and safety, respecting innovation and design.
They are perfect for prolonged use and can even be treated to increase reliability, resistance to temperatures, pressure, corrosion, and wear due to use. In addition, plastic caps help protect system components, extending their life over time.
BMP Tappi for automotive and pneumatics
As you have seen, the functions of plastic caps in the automotive and pneumatics sector are multiple, and using plastic instead of other materials offers many advantages.
In this article we have seen only some of the main characteristics, considering that the plastic caps in the automotive sector can also be used as protection for the power train (i.e. the engine) and the underbody, safeguarding all the elements from dust, dirt, and damages. What about the benefits? Certainly, a longer life and a gain in terms of safety.
At BMP Tappi, in particular, we supply different types of caps for every motor vehicle, including pressure models for pneumatics, also with internal or external threading. In addition, we also make custom caps – in different colours, shapes, and sizes – to meet the needs of our customers.
Thanks to cutting-edge machinery, in our factory we also design and build customized molds to offer safe, long-lasting, easy-to-install, and high-quality products that can beautify and protect every mechanism of the vehicle, from cars to motorcycles. Ideal for a first installation or spare parts.
Our plus? We strongly believe in sustainability, and for this reason, our series of technical plastic caps are biodegradable. Disposed of correctly, at the end of their use, they begin to degrade on their own without releasing polluting substances into the environment.
Are you ready to explore the potential of plastic caps for automotive and pneumatics?
Discover our range of BMP Tappi products and enjoy the benefits of quality, safety, and sustainability.
Contact us to find the perfect solution for your needs!