Meeting Fuel Performance Challenges

Efficient storage, metering and delivery of fuel for today's high-performance engines are a continuing challenge as engines are redefined and advanced fuels are perfected. Used successfully in automotive hose applications for more than 25 years, Hypalon® chlorosulfonated polyethylene & Vamac® Ethylene Acrylic Elastomer provides a cost effective approach to both fuel filler hoses and a variety of underhood hose applications. Viton® fluoroelastomer is so effective against extremes of heat, chemicals, fuel mixtures and fuel additives that it has become an essential element for meeting stringent emissions requirements. With today's tightening controls on emissions and passenger safety, more demands than ever will be placed on hoses and sealing components used in automotive systems.

However, long-term sealing integrity has become increasingly difficult to achieve because:

• New regulations are requiring seals that virtually eliminate vapor emissions from standing vehicles.
• Thermal performance now requires greater resistance to permeation and better low temperature sealing.
• Greater variation in fuel mixtures now requires seals that are compatible with a broader range of hydrocarbon blends and oxygenated additives.
• Longer warranties and extended service intervals now requires greater hose and seal durability to match increased mileage expectations.
• Smaller, hotter engine compartments are driving underhood temperatures even higher.