To improve engine efficiency, more OEMs are switching from polyester belts used in traditional ICE to elastic belts designed for next-generation front-end accessory drive (FEAD) systems. Due to their low-friction performance and better power transfer capabilities, elastic belts offer considerable fuel savings and improve vehicle range.
This approach also enables engine designers to remove several belt drive components, including alternator overrunning pulleys and auto-tensioners prone to wear that may lead to harsh noise and engine failure. In addition to design simplification, the shift to elastic V-belts provides cost savings.
Subtext: In this 30-minute tech talk, we illustrate how elastic belts can save cost and weight by simplifying the belt drive system. We show how the low creep performance of PA46 cords in these belts enable a much lower initial belt stress that extends bearing life and improves fuel economy.
Our Stanyl® PA46 is an industry-leading aliphatic polyamide optimized for under-the-hood automotive components. The material’s inherent high stiffness and durability provides excellent wear and friction performance required for engine parts built to withstand extreme heat and torque levels. In elastic belts, Stanyl PA46 offers 30 to 50% better stress retention performance compared to PA66. This allows OEMs to install the part under less tension, which reduces strain, improves noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics, increases fuel efficiency, and extends belt lifetimes.
Direct and easy access to our broad portfolio of high-performance plastics: request a quote or order a sample. You can also simply ask our Elastic Drive Belts experts.
Automakers need to ensure hybrid and internal combustion engines comply with CO2 emission regulations shifting every year and manufacturers must ensure emission levels from all newly manufactured vehicles fall below this target – or face significant fines.
Stanyl is the first high-temperature polyamide and the only aliphatic polyamide in its class. The symmetry of the 46 structure ensures that the polymers fit in the crystal in multiple ways, thereby giving rise to high crystallization speeds and high crystallinity.
Stanyl® PA46 allows for reliable material solutions for multiple Front End Accessory Drive Parts, due to its unmatched dry running wear & friction performance at elevated temperatures, its damping capability (consistent Frictional Properties Minimal or no slip / stick), its superior creep Resistance at elevated temperatures
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