Plastic component helps Ford reduce vehicle weight.
March 1, 2001
North America's first multishell, vibration-welded intake manifold debuted on Ford's 5.4-liter, two-valve engines on the 1999 Ford F-series 150 and 250 light trucks, Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators. This manifold also marks the first use of Zytel welding-enhanced PA 6,6 nylon resin.
Supplier evaluation is not an easy process. Many different formulas and techniques can be used. One effective method assigns suppliers to four basic categories based upon their level of performance in key areas, such as delivery, quality and responsiveness.
Traditional rivets aren’t as common on plant floors as they once were. But, they’re still a cost-effective fastening alternative for many assembly applications.
Nuts and bolt aren't the only types of fasteners used in product assembly. Retaining rings, Speed Nuts and a variety of other specialized metal and plastic fasteners have been developed. These specialty fasteners can often save time in the assembly process, eliminate the need for additional fastening components, lower manufacturing costs and maximize holding power.
LEAK TESTING IS AN engineering challenge. On one hand, engineers must meet stricter leak rate standards. On the other, they have to make the leak testing process less costly and less dependent on operator skill. To meet this dilemma, engineers must understand all aspects of the leak testing process.
Based in Kronach, Germany, manufacturer Dr. Franz Schneider Kunststoffwerke makes plastic parts for automobiles. The company specializes in functional trim elements, such as fresh-air grills, produced using various injection-molding processes. Modular conveyors ensure efficient flow of product throughout the assembly plant.
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