Influence of Solid Additives in Performance of Tripot-Type Constant Velocity Joints

The global trend to reduce CO₂ emissions, combined with the popularity of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV’s), has prompted automakers to design and manufacture lighter vehicles with suspension architectures that may require halfshafts (HS’s) to operate at higher continuous angles than in the past. Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics of a halfshaft, as well as its durability, are functions of the operating angle and the lubricating grease in the joints. Newer vehicles require driveline solutions that can provide consistent dynamic performance over a wide range of operating angles. Tripot-type Constant Velocity Joints (CVJ’s) are commonly used as inboard joints in a halfshaft. Through proper grease selection, premium tripots may be lubricated with greases containing solid additives, which provide consistent dynamic performance and durability.