In automotive engineering, the efficiency and reliability of fluid systems and the correct vehicle performance heavily depend on the material selection for each of those components. Fluid systems, which include pipes, hoses, and its components, are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of modern cars.
There are some key points to consider when choosing the correct material for fluid handling systems:
Durability and Resistance
One of the most critical factors in material selection is durability. Components in fluid conduction systems must withstand extreme conditions of temperature and pressure, in addition to being resistant to corrosion and wear. Materials such as advanced polymers reinforced with fiberglass, excel in this aspect whenever high mechanical properties are required. These materials not only provide a prolonged service life but also reduce the need for frequent maintenance, resulting in lower long-term operational costs.
Assessing the components’ operational conditions will provide a clear picture of the long-term environment that the material will withstand and thus, facilitate the study of the mechanical properties of each to provide the most feasible solution.
The material’s endurance involves both the quality guaranty during its life and its resistance to unforeseeable conditions such as failure by external factors, that’s why it is important to research and highlight the resistance to ignition and flame-retardant properties of a material as it ensures a safety factor against it.
Chemical Compatibility
Fluid conduction systems must handle different types of fluids, including fuels, oils, coolants, and brake fluids, without degrading. An in-depth study of the interaction between the chemicals, operational conditions and the selected material must be performed to predict its behaviour in a long-term exposure to prevent the system failure, either by degrading or diminishing its mechanical properties. Factors such as temperature, exposure and chemical combinations can provide the right conditions for a swift degradation of the material before time.
Moreover, the environmental impact must be considered as the material selected must provide a barrier to volatile gases and dangerous liquids that could affect it, specifically in fuel applications where hydrocarbons and COx gases can be released.
Weight and Fuel Efficiency
Material selection also directly impacts the vehicle’s weight, which in turn affects fuel efficiency and electric battery range. Lightweight materials such as aluminium and reinforced polymers help reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. This aspect is particularly relevant in the development of electric and hybrid vehicles, where energy efficiency is crucial.
Innovation and Technology
Constant innovation in materials also plays an essential role. As legislation is becoming more restrictive in terms of emissions, it is necessary to adapt and find the best material to meet these standards. Also, it is important to reduce the carbon footprint of each of the products manufactured, making them more environmentally friendly in terms of emissions and complying with current regulations. Our constant search into innovative and green sourced materials, provides our clients with a vast group of options that can adapt to the vehicle’s specifications and care for the environment sustainability. Characteristics such as recyclability and CO2 footprint are important standards as we consider the impact of our product in all its useful life.
The correct selection of materials for vehicle fluid conduction systems is crucial for the durability, efficiency, and safety of automobiles. At ILPEA, we dedicate significant resources to researching and developing material choices, recognizing this as a key factor. We are committed to providing innovative and high-quality material solutions for the automotive industry through partnerships with leading plastic raw material suppliers. Our goal is to ensure our clients receive the best technology and performance from our products.
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