Multi-Layer Coolant Pipe Structure for Fire Resistance and Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipes for low-temperature, low-pressure cooling circuits in vehicles lack sufficient flexibility, vibration resistance, and fire resistance, particularly in meeting the UL 94 V-0 standard, despite using thermoplastic materials.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer pipe structure comprising an inner layer of ethylene-propylene copolymers for fluid resistance and flexibility, an outer layer of ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers with a high proportion of flame retardants for fire resistance, and an intermediate bonding layer to enhance adhesion between the layers, ensuring compliance with UL 94 V-0 standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If thermoplastic materials are used to meet fire resistance requirements, then fire resistance is improved, but flexibility and vibration resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe is divided into multiple concentric layers, each made of different materials optimized for specific functions. The inner layer uses elastomer for flexibility and chemical resistance, while the outer layer uses thermoplastic for fire resistance, allowing each layer to independently optimize its properties without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe employs a composite structure combining elastomer and thermoplastic materials in concentric layers. This composite approach allows the pipe to simultaneously achieve the flexibility and vibration dampening of elastomer and the fire resistance of thermoplastic, resolving the contradiction between these opposing requirements.
2Device complexity
If a single-layer structure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to meet multiple performance requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe structure is segmented into multiple functional layers: an inner elastomer layer for flexibility and chemical resistance, and an outer thermoplastic layer for fire resistance. This segmentation allows each layer to independently satisfy specific performance requirements that cannot be met by a single material.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer structure enables the pipe to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the inner layer provides mechanical flexibility and vibration dampening, while the outer layer provides fire resistance and structural protection, making the pipe compliant with multiple conflicting standards.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a pipe for conveying a fluid, in particular a coolant, for a vehicle, the pipe having a multi-layer structure and comprising:an inner layer defining an inner passage for fluid circulation, the inner layer being formed of a first material comprising an elastomer selected from the ethylene-propylene copolymers,an outer layer formed of a second material comprising:an elastomer selected from ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers in a proportion of at least 50 phr, anda flame retardant according to a proportion of at least 50 phr, andan intermediate bonding layer arranged between the inner layer and the outer layer and comprising a mixture of an ethylene-propylene copolymer with an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer or a polyacrylate or an ethylene acrylate copolymer.