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Ford Australia's new EcoLPi Falcon model boasts next-generation liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) technology which delivers impressive fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. The EcoLPi system's in-line six-cylinder engine features a thermoplastic fuel rail made of Amodel polyphthalamide (PPA) resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers USA (Alpharetta, GA)

PlasticsToday Staff

December 16, 2011

1 Min Read
LPG-powered vehicle turns to PPA resin for fuel rail

The cornerstone of the EcoLPi engine is the new LPG injection system which uses a new injector-based, high-pressure fuel rail that delivers liquid-state LPG fuel directly into the intake port. Preliminary testing reveals a 12%-15% improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for liquid phase LPG injection technology compared to the previous E-Gas venturi-style LPG vapor system.

Amodel A-1133, a 33% glass-filled PPA grade, provides strong static burst strength and fatigue resistance at high temperatures and withstands ozone gas. The material is a proven alternative to metal in this highly pressurized fuel injection application. It withstands static burst pressures up to 2000 psi (13.8 MPa) at room temperature and 1000 psi (6.9 MPa) at 248°F (120°C).

The EcoLPi liquid phase injection LPG system produces 27% more power and 10% more torque than previous E-Gas LPG vapor systems, while at the same time reducing fuel consumption by 12-15%. Amodel PPA boasts high flow/fast cycling, high HDT for lead-free soldering, excellent chemical resistance, low moisture absorption/strong dimensional stability, and impact performance for practical toughness.

This unique application is a key part of Solvay's automotive strategy which focuses on the development of sustainable solutions, according to Brian Baleno, Amodel PPA product manager for Solvay Specialty Polymers. "We are very encouraged by the use of Amodel products in alternative fuel applications," said Baleno. "Solvay continues to work with automotive Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs to provide sustainable systems that provide increased fuel efficiency and environmental friendly vehicles through reduced emissions." -[email protected]

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