Parts in the drivetrain have to work in very challenging conditions. In addition to exposure to high heat and corrosive chemicals, drivetrain parts need excellent wear performance since they are perpetually in motion. At the same time, manufacturers are looking to reduce weight via metal replacement, and cost on the production of drivetrain parts, including Front End Accessory Drive (FEAD) systems, elastic belts, belt tensioner bushings, and damper pulleys and elements.
Stanyl has proven an effective replacement for aluminum in FEAD systems, in particular for the tensioner. Manufacturers are selecting this high-performance thermoplastic with increasing frequency due to its excellent wear resistance and noise reduction, as well as heat and chemical resistance in an environment exposed to dirt, rain, under-the-hood grease and oil, and high engine temperatures.
This material has also proven itself effective for Dual Mass Flywheels, which require more damping and movement of the tensioner with the potential for higher temperatures and more wear, as well as for automotive cords that withstand extreme noise, vibration and harshness. For cords, Stanyl helps manufacturers realize reductions in both weight and cost, while reducing creep compared with PA66, and providing more stretch than PET cords.
In addition to Stanyl, our portfolio includes a range of materials for other applications. For automotive pulleys, our high-flow Akulon PA6 produces pulleys that keep their shape and last longer. With a lower injection molding temperature than PA66, Akulon Ultraflow generates less temperature loading on the bearing being over-molded, extending the lifetime of the pulley.