New Lucas system streamlines injector assembly

Citation

(2000), "New Lucas system streamlines injector assembly", Assembly Automation, Vol. 20 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2000.03320aaf.008

New Lucas system streamlines injector assembly

New Lucas system streamlines injector assembly

Keywords: Lucas, Assembly, PROFIBUS

TRW Lucas, one of Modular Industries' longest standing customers, has taken delivery of three high-performance assembly systems for its Lucas Diesel division.

The Modular Automation systems will streamline the assembly of diesel injectors at Lucas Diesel to meet demand for Ford's new breed of direct-injection diesel engines.

The injector will operate at two opening pressures. During the firing sequence, the injector provides each cylinder with a pilot boost of fuel before the main injection. This achieves cleaner burning, resulting in lower exhaust emissions, better fuel consumption and quieter running, particularly on start-up (see Plate 6).

Historically, injectors were assembled completely, tested, then recalibrated, if required. With tolerances measured in microns, adjustments were usually required to account for the build-up within the machined parts.

Plate 6New Lucas system streamlines injector assembly

Modular's system, which also features Linkline palletised conveyor from sister division Modular Handling, uses accurate measurement during assembly to ascertain the compensation required during the assembly process.

The assembly solution brings together the latest in PROFIBUS control systems, data matrix reading and electronic pallet tagging to build a profile of each diesel injector. This information is stored on a computer database for long-term field diagnostics.

For more information contact: Matthew Bythell, Marketing Manager, Modular Industries Limited.

Tel: +44 (0) 121 766 7979; E-mail: bythell@modular.co.uk