Jan 21 2009
In one of the first commercial examples of under-the-hood metals replacement by Nissan in the company’s European operation, DuPont™ Minlon® and DuPont™ Zytel® resins are being used for the rocker and front cover on turbo diesel engines for the Japanese automaker’s popular Pathfinder model.
The injection molded parts offer top performance in terms of stiffness, strength and dimensional stability – essential for ensuring a tight seal to protect the valve control system and to prevent lubricating oil from escaping. The resins can resist operating temperatures of up to 150° C as well as exposure to hot oils or chemicals.
The parts were developed by DuPont customers in Spain, with DuPont applications development assistance. ”The success of the project opens future possibilities to extend metals replacement to other components on Nissan nameplate models,” said Xavier Soler of DuPont Engineering Polymers.