Chinaplas: Less friction leads to better fuel economy

Weight reduction in automobiles is a major issue in improving their fuel economies. Not so well known is the fact that reducing energy losses due to friction can be a key contributor as well. This route to enhanced fuel efficiency has been demonstrated in an application employing a grade of Stanyl polyamide 46 from DSM Engineering Plastics (Singapore).

Chain tensioner employ polyamide grade to reduce friction, improve fuel efficiency.By using the material in automotive chain tensioner slide shoes, the amount by up to 2 gram CO₂ per km and lowering the fuel consumption by up to 1%, while at the same time delivering high wear performance. “To reduce CO₂ emissions by 2-2 gram CO₂ per km, you would normally need to reduce vehicle weight by 40 kg,” notes Fredric Petit, Global Director of Sustainability & Marketing Communications at DSM. 

In passenger cars with a chain driven valve train, chains are used for synchronizing the timing of the movement of the pistons with the timing of the actuation of the inlet and outlet valves. Chain guides in this system provide the appropriate chain tension. PA46, slide shoes can reportedly achieve 25% lower CoF (coefficient of friction) and reduce CO₂ emissions effectively. In addition, Stanyl PA46 better meets the harsh operating conditions of engines of large cars and diesel cars. Stanyl PA46 is also reportedly best-in-class in terms of wear performance, with 4-7-times higher wear resistance compared to PA 66 resulting in solid performance across the engine’s lifetime. As such, Stanyl already plays a major role in highly loaded chain tensioners or tensioners with high curvature.

A motored engine test at Ford indicated that at 90°C, Stanyl PA46 shows 0.45 Nm lower friction torque than PA 66 at all rpm, which would be equivalent to up to 2 gram CO₂/km.  Stanyl has proven successful for use in timing systems and tensioners in all engines and models from a wide range of major automotive producers.