Design World

  • Home
  • Technologies
    • 3D CAD
    • Electronics • electrical
    • Fastening & Joining
    • Factory automation
    • Linear Motion
    • Motion Control
    • Test & Measurement
    • Sensors
    • Fluid power
  • Learn
    • Ebooks / Tech Tips
    • Engineering Week
    • Future of Design Engineering
    • MC² Motion Control Classrooms
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Webinars
  • LEAP AWARDS
  • Leadership
    • 2022 Voting
    • 2021 Winners
  • Design Guide Library
  • Resources
    • 3D Cad Models
      • PARTsolutions
      • TraceParts
    • Digital Issues
      • Design World
      • EE World
    • Women in Engineering
  • Supplier Listings

Freudenberg-NOK’s Low Load Seal Design Improves Sealing Performance

By Frank Tobe | August 12, 2014

Share

FreudenbergNOKSo 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.

Freudenberg-NOK
www.fnst.com


Filed Under: TECHNOLOGIES + PRODUCTS, Seals
Tagged With: freudenbergnok
 

Tell Us What You Think!

Related Articles Read More >

molex-versablade-300x300
Heilind Electronics now offering Molex VersaBlade Wire-to-Wire Connector System
TEXELCO : Series 180 multi color beacon with audio
PX AND PA Series foot switches 
Rockwell Automation releases new, highly customizable industrial monitors  

DESIGN GUIDE LIBRARY

“motion

Enews Sign Up

Motion Control Classroom

Design World Digital Edition

cover

Browse the most current issue of Design World and back issues in an easy to use high quality format. Clip, share and download with the leading design engineering magazine today.

EDABoard the Forum for Electronics

Top global problem solving EE forum covering Microcontrollers, DSP, Networking, Analog and Digital Design, RF, Power Electronics, PCB Routing and much more

EDABoard: Forum for electronics

Sponsored Content

  • Global supply needs drive increased manufacturing footprint development
  • How to Increase Rotational Capacity for a Retaining Ring
  • Cordis high resolution electronic proportional pressure controls
  • WAGO’s custom designed interface wiring system making industrial applications easier
  • 10 Reasons to Specify Valve Manifolds
  • Case study: How a 3D-printed tool saved thousands of hours and dollars

Design World Podcasts

April 11, 2022
Going small with 3D printing
See More >
Engineering Exchange

The Engineering Exchange is a global educational networking community for engineers.

Connect, share, and learn today »

Design World
  • Advertising
  • About us
  • Contact
  • Manage your Design World Subscription
  • Subscribe
  • Design World Digital Network
  • Engineering White Papers
  • LEAP AWARDS

Copyright © 2022 WTWH Media LLC. All Rights Reserved. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of WTWH Media
Privacy Policy | Advertising | About Us

Search Design World

  • Home
  • Technologies
    • 3D CAD
    • Electronics • electrical
    • Fastening & Joining
    • Factory automation
    • Linear Motion
    • Motion Control
    • Test & Measurement
    • Sensors
    • Fluid power
  • Learn
    • Ebooks / Tech Tips
    • Engineering Week
    • Future of Design Engineering
    • MC² Motion Control Classrooms
    • Podcasts
    • Videos
    • Webinars
  • LEAP AWARDS
  • Leadership
    • 2022 Voting
    • 2021 Winners
  • Design Guide Library
  • Resources
    • 3D Cad Models
      • PARTsolutions
      • TraceParts
    • Digital Issues
      • Design World
      • EE World
    • Women in Engineering
  • Supplier Listings