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MOTORINDIA
l
June 2012
97
Dow Corning
design solutions to
improve CV life-cycle cost
Dow Corning Corporation, a global leader in sili-
cones, silicon-based technology and innovation, offers
a range of advanced design solutions that can help to
improve the reliability and life-cycle cost of commer-
cial vehicles. These specialty materials can contribute to
increased fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, added du-
rability, 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 serv-
ice-related costs,” said Marjorie Dwane, Dow Corning
Automotive, Aviation and Aerospace Global Market
Manager. “Various Dow Corning technologies, prov-
en effective for years and ready to meet the emerging
requirements and challenges, offer vehicle OEMs and
their system and component suppliers an exciting port-
folio of ‘smart’ design solutions.”
Silastic brand engineered elastomers can provide ef-
fective solutions for inflatable-restraint systems, fluid
and air delivery, engine sealing and gasketing, electri-
cal protection and vibration control. Dow Corning brand
performance adhesives and sealants offer potential high-
strength bonding and sealing solutions for lighting-sys-
tem and interior-component assembly.
High-performance smart design solutions are also avail-
able for all weight classes of commercial vehicles, includ-
ing 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 electri-
cal 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 seat-
belt systems; fabric coating and seam sealing for air-
bags; 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 protec-
tion.
w
technology
Advanced materials from Dow Corning can deliver
design improvements in commercial vehicle pow-
ertrain, body and chassis, braking, and cabin sys-
tems. Molykote brand Smart Lubrication solutions
can enhance fuel efficiency and lower emissions,
provide brake friction control, reduce noise, vibra-
tion and harshness (NVH), and improve reliability
and service life.