Issue 36/2013 - DSM EcoPaXX polyamide 410 is used in automotive diesel engines

Royal DSM (DSM) has joined hands with automotive parts supplier KACO to develop a lightweight and multifunctional crankshaft end cover
.
The new product with EcoPaXX bio-based polyamide 410 technology will be used in the Volkswagen Group's latest modular platform
for MDB systems.
The platform is suitable for diesel engines
from Audi, Seat, Skoda and other Volkswagen car brands.
Thanks to the integrated, fully automated production cell for this automotive component, the system cost of producing the product is significantly reduced
compared to the aluminum crankcase cover.
In addition, since the density of EcoPaXX grades is 45% lower than that of aluminum, the total weight of the finished product is also significantly reduced
.

70% of the raw materials for DSM EcoPaXX polyamide 410 products are derived from renewable resources
.
KACO's production process is not only injection molding, but also integrates two independent sealing units: first, the PTFE sealing strip is placed into the mold by a manipulator and the EcoPaXX is injection molded by insert molding; The LSR is then molded directly into the
entire part by a two-shot molding process.
The result is a finished crankshaft end cap that weighs less than comparable aluminium products, ensuring efficient driving, fuel savings and reduced CO2 emissions
throughout the vehicle's service life.
(Zhang Wenxuan)