The Automotive Industry
The automotive industry uses PMI instruments and testing services for numerous applications, some of which are highlighted below. Many of the examples combine applications from other industries as well.
Performance of components used in automotive industry including brake pads, oil filters, air filters, cabin air filters, automotive sintered metal filters, and filter cartridges are determined by their pore structure characteristics. Pore size, pore distribution, gas and liquid permeability, and pore volume are some of the important pore structure characteristics.
The measurement of characteristics described above is accomplished by a combination of techniques, the most important of which is Capillary Flow Porometry. Porometry characterizes the transport, or through-pores, of a material. Porometry measures pore throat-diameter. Characterization of throat-diameter allows for prediction of retention and provides data on filter performance.
Permeability testing of sintered metal components found throughout the engine, fuel, and oil maintenance systems is important. The PMI Porometer and other instruments are utilized for this application. Additionally, PMI tests the porosity of many nonwovens used in the automotive industry. Examples include air bags, fuel filters, air filters, and interior components. Again, instruments in the Porometer line are used to test these materials.
Furthermore, the PMI Porosimeter and Sorptometers can test the porosity and surface area of catalytic converters. For more information, please see the Ceramic Industry page.
You can also see how our APP line of products can be useful to your automotive needs by clicking here.