Challenge
A major engine manufacturer was experiencing numerous warranty claims as a result of overheating engines. Upon analysis of the failed engines, the root cause was determined to be missing bearings in the short block. The missing bearings caused improper oil distribution which starved certain sections of the engine and caused the engine to overheat. The resulting negative customer satisfaction and costly warranty repairs were damaging the reputation and bottom line for this manufacturer. As a result they decided to examine options for improved quality testing.
Solution
This engine manufacturer required a test system that would identify any bearing related defect. By implementing Sciemetric's Short Block Verification System early in the assembly process the manufacturer was able to identify bearing problems that were not being caught during end-of-line hot or cold testing. The system measures the torque as the crank is rotated. It also measures air back pressure as pressurized air is forced into the oil gallery while all the other oil holes have been plugged. The system compares the results of these tests to results of known good short blocks to assess quality. Sciemetric's core testing technology uses algorithms designed specifically for engine short block verification. The system provides consistent and reliable detection of short block defects such as: missing conrod bearings, missing main bearings, incorrect fit, debris, reversed caps, blocked oil passage. The Short Block Verification System is ready to install out-of-the-box for fast implementation, immediate quality improvement and minimal disruption to production.
Download our complete application note to learn how Sciemetric's solution for short block testing helped this customer.
