TPi November 2014

Low load seal design improves sealing performance When General Motors Corp (GM) was searching for a static radial seal for several engine applications, the company selected Freudenberg-NOK’s ergonomically engineered, low load seal technology. This partnership has grown into additional applications across GM’s highest volume four- cylinder and V6 engines. Freudenberg-NOK’s low load seal, a type of offset seal that can be easily installed and removed by hand, is claimed to reduce installation force by more than 70 per cent. GM adopted the design for several engine applications, including a spark plug tube, vacuum pump seal and two solenoid-to-cam cover seals. “Offset seals control independent loading on mated components and can be easily assembled or removed, allowing options for serviceability,” said David Pehlman, engineering manager, Freudenberg-NOK. “The design allows for the use of dissimilar mated materials and reduces stress on components, which contributes to increased durability.” The basic premise of low load sealing is that instead of squeezing an O-ring bonded to a metal case, rubber is trapped in various shapes and allowed to move a little more, which requires a lower assembly force and creates improved sealing. After validation tests were completed, GM adopted the design for both the spark plug tube seal and mechanical vacuum pump seal. Freudenberg-NOK engineered the seals to GM material specifications and they now appear on some of the manufacturer’s latest model offerings, including the Cadillac CTS Sedan, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Malibu. However, the design is not limited to engine applications. John Wagner, staff design engineer at Freudenberg-NOK, and inventor of the low load seal technology, commented, “The seal’s lip design can be applied to other static radial offset applications. It reduces contact pressure, which consequently increases the life cycle of the seal and the components. It’s a practical, user-friendly solution, particularly when both improved ergonomics and sealing are desired.” Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies is the Americas joint venture between Freudenberg and Co, Germany, and NOK Corp, Japan. The company produces advanced sealing technologies for a variety of markets, including aerospace, agriculture, appliance, automotive, construction, diesel engine, energy, food and beverage, heavy industry and pharmaceutical.

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Messe Düsseldorf GmbH P.O. Box 101006 _ 40001 Düsseldorf _ Germany

Phone +49(0)211/4560-7793/-7707 _ Fax +49(0)211/4560-7740 RyfischD@messe-duesseldorf.de _ BurbullaK@messe-duesseldorf.de www.messe-duesseldorf.de

Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies – USA www.fnst.com

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Tube Products International November 2014

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30.09.14 17:15