Automotive Applications
Advanced ceramics can be applied in various aspects of the automotive industry, including engine components, thermal management systems, sensor technology, brake systems, emission control, and other applications.
Advanced ceramics fabrication for automotive
The use of advanced ceramics in the automotive industry holds significant importance and shows a promising trend. These ceramics offer unique properties such as lightweight, high temperature resistance, excellent wear and corrosion resistance, and thermal and electrical insulation. Their application in engine components, thermal management systems, sensors, brake systems, and emission control contributes to improved performance, efficiency, durability, and safety in vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to advance, the trend towards utilizing advanced ceramics is expected to grow, driven by the need for lightweight materials, enhanced energy efficiency, and the demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. The ongoing development and innovation in ceramic materials and manufacturing techniques further pave the way for exciting possibilities in the automotive sector.
Hybrid Vehicles
Advanced ceramics play a crucial role in the thermal management of batteries, electric motors, and charging devices, helping to regulate and dissipate heat efficiently. Ceramic materials are also employed as substrates for high-voltage and low-voltage circuit carriers, providing reliable insulation and electrical performance. Additionally, precision-engineered ceramic shafts and bearings are used in water-cooling pumps to cool critical engine electronics and lithium-ion batteries, ensuring optimal operating temperatures and enhancing the overall performance and longevity of hybrid vehicles.
Sensor Technology
In the automotive industry, sensor technology relies on the utilization of piezo ceramic components as electronically controlled sensors. These components play a crucial role in gathering essential data regarding engine operation, position, and orientation changes. Ceramic materials find extensive use in various automotive sensors such as acceleration sensors, knock sensors, liquid level sensors, parking distance sensors, and more. These sensors enable vehicles to gather accurate and real-time information, enhancing overall performance and safety.
Exhaust Manifolds
Shielding the electronic engine management system of a vehicle from the elevated temperatures in the engine environment poses a significant design challenge. To address this, engineers employ ceramic coatings on the surface of the exhaust manifold to enhance its functionality. These ceramic coatings effectively reduce back pressure, lower surface temperatures, and provide protection against corrosion. Furthermore, the incorporation of ceramic materials also contributes to minimizing engine noise, resulting in a more comfortable driving experience.
Brake Pad
Ceramic materials offer exceptional resistance to glycol coolants, ensuring prolonged durability, and are also lightweight, leading to enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced noise during operation. In the automotive industry, boron carbide ceramics are commonly employed in brake pads, while silicon carbide ceramics are utilized for high-performance brake discs due to their exceptional ability to withstand extreme temperatures. These ceramic solutions play a vital role in maintaining optimal braking performance and ensuring a smoother and quieter driving experience.