Nissan Motor Company has recently announced the adoption of cold spray technology in the production of valve seats, making it the first automotive company to utilize this innovative process. This new coating process is being used in the manufacturing of the company’s new 1.5L turbocharged engine, specifically designed for power generation in their third-generation e-Power hybrid powertrain.
The cold spray process involves spraying powdered materials at supersonic speeds to create a solid layer. This technology has been widely embraced in industries such as aerospace, heavy equipment, and oil and gas, due to its high reliability and quality standards.
Nissan has highlighted that the cold spray technology operates at temperatures below the melting points of the materials involved, allowing for the bonding of dissimilar metals without melting. This unique process prevents the formation of excessive intermetallic compounds and micro-voids, common in traditional fusion welding methods. As a result, the cold spray coatings exhibit superior adhesion, durability, and reliability, essential qualities for engine valve seats.
The first Nissan model to feature the new engine is the Qashqai compact crossover vehicle, which began production at the company’s Sunderland assembly plant in the UK in July. This new 1.5L turbocharged engine, codenamed ZR15DDTe, also incorporates Nissan’s proprietary Strong Tumble & Appropriately stretched Robust ignition Channel (STARC) technology. This technology minimizes airflow turbulence from the intake port into the combustion chamber, enhancing thermal efficiency by stabilizing in-cylinder combustion, achieving up to 42% efficiency.
In addition to the technological advancements in their engines, Nissan is also encouraging industry recognition through the Just Auto Excellence Awards. These awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact within the automotive sector. By participating in these awards, companies can showcase their achievements, elevate their industry profile, and position themselves among the top leaders driving advancements in the automotive industry.
Overall, Nissan’s adoption of cold spray technology in engine production, combined with their commitment to industry recognition through awards, demonstrates their dedication to innovation and excellence in the automotive sector.
