Application Description
In carburetors for propane- and natural-gas-fueled engines for forklifts and other equipment, Vespel® polyimide parts have improved wear resistance and vehicle emissions in replacing phenolics for rings, stepped bushings and orifice plates. In 100,000 mile durability tests, the phenolic parts wore rapidly against aluminum, causing overly rich fuel mixtures and excessive exhaust emissions.
Benefits Gained
Longer service life. In IMPCO’s tests, carburetors with unlubricated Vespel® parts continued to run well and meet strict emission requirements after 4 million operating cycles. Models using phenolic parts were worn out at less than 600,000 cycles. Field performance has confirmed the test results.
Reliability. The Vespel® parts perform well at temperatures far beyond the carburetors’ operating range of -40°F (-40°C) to 400°F (204°C). The parts resist damage by backfire flames and contaminated fuel.
Simpler manufacture. The Vespel® parts come fully finished and thus require no secondary operations.
Materials Selected and Why
Vespel® parts fill needs for low friction and wear, outstanding thermal performance and resistance to chemical attack.
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