Working closely with the Momentive Performance Materials team in Leverkusen, Germany, Taniq, a spin-off from the Aerospace Faculty of Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands, has developed a new approach to increase the pressure resistance of silicone-textile composite pressure hoses.
The global trend toward downsized engines and greater powertrain efficiency – driven by the need to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – has led to increased adoption of high-pressure turbo-charger applications.
Instead of wrapping fabric-textile around the rubber-composite or knitting a reinforcement through extrusion, the new process provides reinforcement through an endless cord spun onto the rubber hose. The position of the cord is mathematically optimised to ensure that only tensile forces are applied to the reinforcement, resulting in a more flexible shaped hose, with increased working pressures up to 6 bars.
“Higher charge air pressure naturally results in a temperature increase,” said Oliver Franssen, global marketing manager for transportation, Momentive. “To meet this challenge, we have worked closely with Taniq to develop a heat-resistant silicone material that pushes the existing limits towards 250°C.
This new concept, combining high heat compounds and smart efficient reinforcement, should also allow new and more complex hose designs, since materials usage can now be better optimised.”
The joint development project was granted the Eureka label by the European Union. With this designation, Taniq was able to leverage the programme for High Tech Automotive Systems in The Netherlands, and receive partial funding from the Dutch government.
“The European Union has focused on dramatically reducing vehicle CO2 emissions and now supports us officially,” added Siebe Nooij, director of Taniq. “We are very excited about this funding approval which will help our team finalise and optimise the development, then make it available commercially for turbo hose manufacturers.”
Momentive is a global leader in silicones and advanced materials, with a 70-year heritage of being the first to market with performance applications for major industries that support and improve everyday life. The company delivers science-based solutions, by linking custom technology platforms to opportunities for customers. Momentive Performance Materials Inc is controlled by an affiliate of Apollo Management, LP.
Taniq has specialised in optimal fibre reinforcement for reinforced rubber products.
