BorgWarner Timing Chains Business To Get A Boost As Industry Switches From Timing Belts.(Brief Article)(Statistical Data Include

BorgWarner said it is well-positioned to meet the demand for timing chains as major Japanese auto makers turn to the use of timing chains for a significant percentage of their engine programs. For one customer, BorgWarner said it expects to supply more than one million of its small-pitch silent chains.

"The shift from belts to more durable timing chain systems makes engines more fuel efficient and reduces emissions," said Roger Wood, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Morse TEC. "Our small-pitch silent-chain technology for use in overhead cam engines is designed for low noise, power, durability, and a compact package to accommodate smaller and smaller engines."

The use of chain drives by Japanese automakers worldwide is expected to grow by more than 50 percent -- from 3.6 million engines currently to about 8.5 million by 2005. BorgWarner will produce these timing chains at its facilities in Nabari City, Japan and Ithaca, New York, it said. The company said it recently expanded its Nabari City operation by 50 percent in anticipation of demand for its small-pitch silent chains.

In the U.S., engine component longevity has become a key factor in engine design with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requiring emissions equipment durability of up to 150,000 miles.

Print Get the Mag Weekly Updates