May 1, 2006

Researchers developing new hybrid drivetrain cooling system

Knoxville, Tennessee - Researchers at the National Transportation Research Center in Tennessee are developing a new cooling system for hybrid drivelines, which could lead to better performance, improved fuel efficiency and increased power density on future vehicles.

The system, called the Floating Loop, uses a small, low-pressure pump to move R134a liquid refrigerant for direct-contact cooling. It shares some components and piping with the vehicle's air conditioning system, but remains operationally independent. Removing the heat generated by a hybrid's electrical systems is essential for reliable operation; the researchers believe the system may also be adaptable to fuel cell vehicles. The Floating Loop is not dependent on R134a, and researchers are also exploring the use of new cooling fluids. Currently, hybrids use a variety of cooling systems, including radiator coolant loops, forced or natural air convection, and oil circulation.

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