Dow Corning Corporation, a global leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, offers a range of advanced design solutions that can help to improve the reliability and life-cycle cost of commercial vehicles. These specialty materials can contribute to increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, added durability, comfort and safety for medium and heavy duty trucks, buses and special-purpose vehicles.
“Up-front design decisions can help extend the life cycle of commercial vehicles while also reducing service-related costs,” said Marjorie Dwane, Dow Corning Automotive, Aviation and Aerospace Global Market Manager. “Various Dow Corning technologies, proven effective for years and ready to meet the emerging requirements and challenges, offer vehicle OEMs and their system and component suppliers an exciting portfolio of ‘smart’ design solutions.”
Advanced materials from Dow Corning can deliver design improvements in commercial vehicle powertrain, body and chassis, braking, and cabin systems. Molykote brand Smart Lubrication solutions can enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions, provide brake friction control, reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), and improve reliability and service life.
Silastic brand engineered elastomers can provide effective solutions for inflatable-restraint systems, fluid and air delivery, engine sealing and gasketing, electrical protection and vibration control. Dow Corning brand performance adhesives and sealants offer potential high-strength bonding and sealing solutions for lighting-system and interior-component assembly.
High-performance smart design solutions are also available for all weight classes of commercial vehicles, including trucks, buses and a full range of specialty vehicles.
Some of the potential applications for these advanced specialty materials include:
• Engine and transmission: Lubricating pistons, clutches, bearings and universal joints; fabricating heat- and fuel-resistant turbocharger hoses, vacuum tubing, diaphragms and vibration isolators; sealing radiators, intercoolers, crankcases and gearboxes
• Body and chassis: Lubricating steering gears and suspension grease points; protecting locks and electrical connections; bonding and sealing seams and lighting assemblies
• Brakes: Adding precise friction control to brake pads and linings; lubricating caliper pins and pedal and cable systems; and sealing actuators, boosters and adjusters
• Cabin systems: Lubricating window, door and seatbelt systems; fabric coating and seam sealing for airbags; bonding and sealing mirrors, instrumentation and interior components
According to Dwane, Dow Corning has a long history of providing innovative materials, application expertise and technical support for commercial vehicle design, manufacturing and service. And now the current trend toward keeping trucks in service for longer periods is being joined by newer regulations for less noise, shorter stopping distances and increased driver safety protection.