The Society of Plastics Engineers has recognized Dayco for its ACTIVAC vacuum generation system for brake vacuum assist utilized in the Ford F-150, Lincoln Navigator and Nautilus and other vehicles.
During the society’s 48th annual Automotive Innovation Awards Gala, Ford, Dayco, MacLean-Fogg and DowDuPont took the top honor in the powertrain category, as well as the Grand Award for innovation in plastics.
Today’s forced-induction engines cannot supply the necessary vacuum required for brake assist. This, combined with the need for improved fuel economy, lower emissions and improved performance, drove the need for a fresh approach, Dayco said.
“Dayco responded to the challenge with its ACTIVAC vacuum generation system, which addresses the need for improved fuel economy and emission reduction by eliminating the parasitic losses associated with mechanical vacuum pumps, as well as through weight reduction,” the company explained in a news release.
Dayco’s patented, high-performing venturi aspirator and flow-control valve use the engine’s incoming airflow to generate the needed vacuum for brake assist, creating a low and consistent brake-pedal feel, even at altitude, according to the company.
“The system is a win for everyone,” said James Miller, director of Dayco’s valve and actuator technologies. “It ‘ticks the box’ in all major categories: lower cost, lighter weight, improved fuel economy, reduced emissions and improved durability and performance.”
Miller added: “The collaborative development, design and manufacturing efforts by Ford, Dayco, MacLean-Fogg, DowDuPont and other suppliers throughout the supply chain made this new system possible.”
Dayco’s ACTIVAC vacuum generation system can be utilized with other systems that require vacuum, such as fuel-vapor purge and crankcase ventilation, according to the company.
“It demonstrates the level of technical innovation, design competence and manufacturing ability that is inherent within the organization, which contributes to Dayco being a world leader in automotive system solutions,” Dayco said in a news release.
