Cooper Standard has unveiled the first product in its new eCoFlow series.
Developed in collaboration with the Saleri Group of Italy, the eCoFlow Switch Pump combines the functionality of an electrically powered valve and an electric water pump into a single integrated coolant control module. This scalable fluid control system is compatible with all powertrains, but it is particularly useful for fully electrified or hybrid vehicles since it allows for fluid flow switching, splitting, and regulation. The revolutionary feature that provides automakers with increased efficiency, part consolidation, a smaller electrical wire harness, and less packaging space is the combining of water pump and valve functions.
“Our eCoFlow Switch Pump is the ‘first-of-its-kind’ solution that enables customers to reduce the complexity of the thermal management system within their vehicles while improving overall system efficiency,” said Chris Couch, president, fluid handling systems and chief technology officer, Cooper Standard. “Beyond the significant system savings, our solution also provides customers with options to potentially reduce battery cell needs for their target vehicle range which helps improve the vehicle’s overall carbon footprint.”
According to Cooper Standard, by reducing complexity, the eCoFlow system enhances the thermal management system’s efficiencies by eliminating the pressure drop and waste encountered from traditional pumps and valves.
The improved design of the eCoFlow system provides smoother transitions in flow to help avoid pressure pulsations and spikes that can lead to system noise. A single electrical connection manages the system’s pumping and advanced fluid control functions, eliminating the need for additional connectors, wire harnesses and vehicle input/output channels. This functionality packages in approximately half the space of the traditional components it replaces.