Making FEAD systems last longer
The Front End Accessory Drive (FEAD) is yet another system that benefits from resistance to high heat as well as the durability provided by thermoplastics like Stanyl® polyamide 46. This is especially true when used in elastic belts, belt tensioner bushings and damper elements/pulleys.
The tensioner helps the FEAD drive the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and other ‘accessories’ inside the vehicle. It has two aluminum halves with a spring in tension between the two. One half is mounted and the other half has a pulley in contact with the belt, which moves constantly to maintain tension.
When the engine is running it’s the Stanyl components - sandwiched between the aluminum housings - that provide the necessary wear resistance and noise reduction. They also provide excellent chemical and heat resistance in an area exposed to dirt, rain, under-the-hood grease and oil, and engine heat.
The Stanyl solution is especially important where used with Dual Mass Flywheels. These require more damping and movement of the tensioner implying higher temperatures and wear (hence Stanyl).
Cords
Cords similarly need to withstand extreme noise, vibration and harshness. This extends the life of the engine and therefore helps reduce systems costs.
Stanyl KS411 is helping to make this a reality for manufacturers thanks to its low creep compared to PA66 and high stretchiness compared to PET cords. The material provides both weight and cost reduction; and even makes robot assembly possible.
Pulleys
Akulon® Ultraflow is a high performance grade of polyamide 6 with extremely high flow capabilities and excellent surface quality. This makes it the ideal material for manufacturing automotive pulleys that keep their shape and last longer.
When molded, Akulon Ultraflow has lower injection temperatures compared to PA66. This leads to less temperature loading of the bearing being overmolded, and therefore a longer lifetime for the pulley itself.
Reduced temperatures, faster cycle time and part production - and improved processing – are just some of the benefits we are giving manufacturers.
