Eaton Introduces Electronic Fuel Vapor Management Valve for Hybrid-Electric Vehicles That Increases Safety, Reduces Emissions

SOUTHFIELD, Mich.--Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation today introduced an electronic fuel vapor management valve for hybrid-electric vehicles that manages fuel vapor pressure contained within the fuel tank, increasing safety and enabling automakers to meet strict emissions regulations. The new system is expected to be in production vehicles by 2012.

“With the proliferation of hybrid vehicles, automakers are researching technologies to improve the performance of fuel systems while meeting safety and emissions regulations”

“With the proliferation of hybrid vehicles, automakers are researching technologies to improve the performance of fuel systems while meeting safety and emissions regulations,” said Julie Tolley, general manager, Fuel Emissions and Powertrain Controls, Eaton’s Vehicle Group. “Hybrid-electric vehicles have significantly reduced the time the engine is on, which inhibits the ability to purge fuel vapor stored in the carbon canister. Eaton’s Hybrid Fuel Tank Isolation Valve enables fuel vapor containment within the tank until the engine is available and prevents canister saturation and hydrocarbon leakage. Our Fuel Tank Isolation Valve design allows for quick tank venting, minimizing refueling ‘splash-back’ caused by high fuel tank pressures.”

The Fuel Tank Isolation Valve leverages two key Eaton technologies – solenoids and vapor management valves – into a simpler, customizable, smaller and smarter system than traditional venting systems. “Eaton’s design uses an optimized solenoid design and integrates functions to reduce the number of parts required, resulting in a 33 percent weight savings and a significant reduction in size,” said Tolley. “The Fuel Tank Isolation Valve also has an available integrated pressure sensor that can be used for fuel system leak detection and purge control. Optional temperature sensing can be added for additional system monitoring and control. In addition, it provides flexible mounting and porting options, configurable electrical connections and variable pressure and flow settings that allow the system to be customized to meet the challenging demands of any auto manufacturer’s specific hybrid packaging requirements.”

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2009 sales of $11.9 billion. Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 70,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com.