Manufacturing of a Vacuum Brake Tube for the Automotive Industry

Problem:

Akron Polymer Products‘ customers and Automotive OEMs are compelled to reduce product weight, mass and part costs. As a result, many new opportunities are created for the use of lighter weight and higher performing thermoplastic materials. One such application is the brake vacuum tube highlighted here. Although used almost exclusively in Europe, thermoplastic vacuum brake tubing has been slow to develop in North America. The traditional design is made up of an elastomeric hose with tubing clamps for securing the extremities. The brake vacuum tube and the critical nature of the brake vacuum system require the new tube application to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Solution:

Akron Polymer Products has assisted its customers in their design and developed and manufactured pre-formed thermoplastic tube assemblies that meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. In addition, Akron’s products have helped customers meet their mass and cost reduction goals. New materials such as high temperature polyamides and co-polyester compounds have proven to be reliable and sustainable materials for many new and similar applications.

Results/Value:

Allow the customer to maintain competitiveness, reduce cost and reduce part weight. To learn more about this project, or about Akron’s other capabilities, contact Akron Polymer directly.

Highlights of this Vacuum Brake Tube for the Automotive Industry

Product DescriptionVacuum Brake Tube for the Automotive Industry
Custom Molding Capabilities Applied/Processes
  • Extruded
  • Formed Thermoplastic Tube
  • End Flaring
  • Connector insertion
  • Assembly
Equipment Used to Manufacture PartExtrusion, Form Tooling, End Flaring Tools, Assembly & Testing
Overall Part DimensionsShort to long complex tube routings
Material UsedHigh temperature polyamides and co-polyester compounds
Technical Specifications Located under the hood, the tube assembly connects the Vacuum Brake Booster to the Intake Manifold.
In process inspection performedOrientation and Fit 100% inspection
Turn Around Time10 Weeks from Development to Build
Industry for UseAutomotive
Delivery Location North America
Standards MetFMVSS-106 & Customer Supplied Specifications
Product NameVacuum Brake Tube