Eaton Unveils Fuel Vapor Management Valve For Hybrid-Electric Vehicles

Eaton has unveiled 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 emissions regulations. The new system is expected to be in production vehicles by 2012.

According to Eaton, the fuel tank isolation valve leverages two technologies including solenoids and vapor management valves. It uses an optimized solenoid design and integrates functions to reduce number of parts required, resulting in a 33% weight savings and reduction in size.

In addition, the valve also features an available integrated pressure sensor that can be used for fuel system leak detection and purge control. It provides simple mounting and porting options, configurable electrical connections and variable pressure and flow settings that allow the system to be efficient, the company said.

Julie Tolley, general manager of fuel emissions and powertrain controls at Eaton’s vehicle group, said: “With the proliferation of hybrid vehicles, automakers are researching technologies to improve the performance of fuel systems while meeting safety and emissions regulations. 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.”