A European Union pilot project is exploring the future benefits of nanotechnology for the off-highway vehicle industry.
A member of the Izadi-Nano2Industry consortium’s Tribonano pilot project, engine component supplier Bonfiglioli is looking at the potential of alternative materials and advanced production processes to produce better, more durable and environmentally friendly products for construction and agricultural machinery.
The research project is one of three the consortium, backed by the EU’s Horizon 2020 program, is undertaking in a bid to transition nanotechnology from the laboratory to industry applications.
Increased durability
Tribonano specifically addresses the surface handling and coating of metal parts, whereby powders with nanostructure combine metal cermet coating and thermal spray technology to produce more durable and reliable metal parts.
With its valve plate and wobble plate, which are used in mobile construction and agricultural machinery, as well as in other mobile machines, Bonfiglioli has integrated two of its hydraulic engine components in the Tribonano project. Through a new innovative production process, Bonfiglioli hydraulic engines achieve high-efficiency levels and a longer service life in comparison to conventional engines on the market.
“Other advantages, such as increased efficiency and reduced fuel consumption, are greatly appreciated by our target customers,” said Andrea Torcelli, chief technology officer at Bonfiglioli.
“Furthermore, the new nanotechnology permits lower maintenance costs for the engine and is also environmentally friendly.”
Interested in industrial vehicle powertrain developments? Check out the Industrial Vehicle Powertrain Technology Conference, which takes place during iVT Expo. The conference will see over 20 international speakers present their findings and views on how to increase internal-combustion engine performance, while at the same time preparing to meet the forthcoming Euro VI emission standards. Both the conference and iVT Expo take place on February 13-14 in Cologne, Germany.
