The culmination of an intensive four-year development program, Hendrickson's Aero Guard bumper combines state-of-the-art resin technology, proprietary injection molding processes and a patented design to create the industry's first heavy-duty, aerodynamic, lightweight, non-metal bumpers

, according to Jeff Zawacki, the product manager.

Introduced initially for International's ProStar tractor, the bumper employs heavy-duty structural ribbing and an extra-thick fascia in a unified structure that provides cold-impact durability down to minus 40 degrees while improving strength, engine cooling and ground clearance. It's in two pieces with a center split.

Large structural ribs are molded by thermoplastic injection without creating unsightly sink marks. It also eliminates support structures, hardware and braces, which lowers production cost and reduces repair time. This molding method can also be used in side fairings, sun visors, hoods and other plastic parts requiring structural support, Zawacki said.

Made from recyclable materials, the Aero Guard bumper is aerodynamic and light weight to preserve International's fuel economy claims. It is molded in black for immediate installation or primer for painting to match the vehicle's body color.