What’s new in IMDS 14.0? Here is a brief overview

IMDS (International Material Data System) is a web-based platform designed to collect and manage information on materials used in automotive products. The system was developed by global automotive manufacturers to ensure compliance with international environmental regulations and EU directives. With the release of IMDS version 14.0 on 10 May 2023, the platform will see several enhancements aimed at improving the user interface, data accuracy and compliance with global regulations. In this article, we will discuss the main changes in IMDS 14.0 and highlight the benefits associated with them.

Mix of structures

In version 13.2, the previously existing control message “Different types of nodes (components, semi-components, materials) are used at the same level” has been supplemented with the sentence” This is only allowed for non-article semi components or materials, which are added to a part or assembly without specific shape, surface or design. […]”

In this version the possibility to define the purpose of non-components at the same level as components (e.g. surface materials or lubricants) will be available. If such a purpose is defined for all non-components, a warning message will not be displayed during inspection. For example, lubricants or coatings. This feature allows the system to distinguish between component and non-component references, making it easier to generate accurate messages.

SC90 for filled/unfilled thermoplastics

The new version also introduces changes to the SC90 control for classifications 5.1.a (filled thermoplastics) and 5.1.b (unfilled thermoplastics). This control will now be changed to control at least 5 % fillers and less than 5 % fillers respectively. In addition, the scheme introduces a new group of substances into which all substances that can be used as fillers in thermoplastic polymers but can also be used for other properties, such as pigments, are grouped. Users can declare that a substance is used as a filler by ticking a box and the proportion of that substance will be counted towards the 5 % control of fillers.

Extended contact information

IMDS 14.0 also includes an extended contact information function. Similar to Material Data Sheets (MDS), it will be possible to assign a contact person to newly created MDS requests. This feature will display the contact person in the MDS request details and in emails. If the contact person is later deactivated, the default company contact will be displayed instead, as with MDS. The system also asks company administrators to confirm or update the company’s default contact person every 90 days to ensure that it is always set up correctly.

Disclosure of confidential substances subject to declaration

Two weeks after each GADSL/SVHC update, all newly designated substances will be recorded in all materials where they were used and marked as “confidential”. This process will be automatic and there is no need to create or send/propose new versions of the materials as the change will be reflected in the already published data. The newly disclosed substances will become visible to the whole supply chain, increasing transparency and ensuring that all stakeholders are informed of any changes.

Checking old MDS

Another important feature of IMDS 14.0 is the checking of old MDSs. Custom data sheets older than 10 years will show an error when checked and can no longer be designed or published. Instead, a new updated version must be created. This will help to ensure that all data is up to date and accurate and will improve the efficiency of data management processes. Material producers can mark their own old materials as ‘still valid’ and avoid audit reporting for a further five years.

Recycling of chemicals and bio-based materials

Finally, IMDS 14.0 introduces options for specifying chemical recycling and biobased material fractions. This will include options to declare certification to a specific standard (e.g. ISCC+) and mass balanced content for bio-based materials and chemically recycled materials. The new recycling/biobased material information can be set up via the Upload tool and will be included in the downloadable files.

These enhancements will make the IMDS system more efficient and user-friendly. The new features will improve transparency, data accuracy and data management processes. In addition, IMDS-AI, the advanced interface in which the system will be embedded, will play a critical role in future releases, including IMDS 14.0.

How can you learn about the new version?

If you are familiar with the basic functionality of IMDS and would like to learn how to work more efficiently with the program while getting familiar with the new version, then we would like to recommend our tutor-led course International Material Data System: Advanced + Upgrade (IMDS2). You can currently register for the guaranteed date of this course, which will take place on June 2, 2023.