Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies (Freudenberg-NOK) is
a global leader in material innovations and custom-engineered sealing
solutions.
So it was only natural that when General Motors Corp. (GM) was searching for a static radial seal for several engine applications, the auto company ultimately selected Freudenberg-NOK's ergonomically engineered, low load seal technology.&nbs" />
Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies (Freudenberg-NOK) is
a global leader in material innovations and custom-engineered sealing
solutions.
So it was only natural that when General Motors Corp.
(GM) was searching for a static radial seal for several engine applications,
the auto company ultimately selected Freudenberg-NOK's ergonomically
engineered, low load seal technology.
Today that partnership has grown into additional applications across
GM's highest volume four-cylinder and V-6 engines.
Freudenberg-NOK's low load seal, a type of offset seal
that can be easily installed and removed by hand, reduces installation force by
more than 70 percent. 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 creates a lower assembly force and
more 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 auto manufacturer's latest 2014 model offerings including
the Cadillac CTS Sedan, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Malibu. While the design is
ideal for engine applications, it is not limited to engine alone.
"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,"
said John Wagner, staff design engineer, Freudenberg-NOK and inventor of the
low lead seal technology. "It's a practical, user-friendly solution,
particularly when both improved ergonomics and sealing are desired."
Wagner's patent pending innovation took him through
various design renderings before arriving at the solution. His work continues
to generate new applications and sealing approaches for GM and Freudenberg-NOK
alike.
About Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies
Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies is the Americas joint venture between
Freudenberg and Co. in Germany and NOK Corp. in Japan. Freudenberg-NOK is a
leading producer of advanced sealing technologies for a variety of markets
including: aerospace; agriculture; appliance; automotive; construction; diesel
engine; energy; food and beverage; heavy industry; and pharmaceutical. Founded
in 1989 under the legal name Freudenberg-NOK General Partnership,
Freudenberg-NOK is headquartered in Plymouth, Mich. and operates more than 20
facilities across the Americas. For additional information, please visit www.fnst.com.