What are the special features of fluid lines?

"In order to answer the question correctly and to understand the needs and challenges of our customers in the field of fluid routing management, we must first ask ourselves the question: "What are the requirements for the line or the attachment of the line and how do they differ from each other?"  In answering this question, we differentiate between the media used, such as coolant, brake fluid, cleaning fluid and air. We focus on the various requirements of the respective line, for example vibration damping, noise damping and required holding forces. The material of the pipes and lines is also crucial."

 

In your opinion, which product is our hidden champion in the field of fluid routing?

"We offer various products that can be used for fluid routing management. My personal favorite is the SoftGripTie.
This is a 2-component cable tie with a TPE soft layer, which was developed for flexible and easy bundling and fastening of smooth and sensitive bundles, especially for media-carrying cables. Thanks to its soft layer, the tie offers the advantage of vibration damping and inhibits lateral movements in smooth cables. The SoftGripTie can be adapted for various customer-specific installation situations thanks to an easily customizable foot section."

 

What standard solutions do we offer in the field of fluid routing management?

"Our broad product portfolio already contains established standard solutions that we can also use in fluid routing. For example, our Edge Clip with integrated cable ties is already being used in large quantities for media-carrying cables.
In addition, my hidden champion, the SoftGripTie, is a mixture of standard and customized solutions. The aforementioned customizable foot section makes it very versatile. The SoftGripTie is a unique, semi-customized solution that saves time and money and was developed here in Tornesch."

 

So we have the development expertise to offer customer-specific solutions?

"That's right. We first check whether we can cover the customer's requirements with standard parts, such as our Edge Clip series or the MOC LOC . If no existing product is suitable, our development department will take over. Our aim is to develop a suitable product solution in collaboration with the customer."

 

Are there any other advantages to replacing metal with plastic?

"There are several. For example, unlike metal, plastic does not corrode - an immensely important issue. I am also thinking of the advantages of integrating various functions due to the flexible geometry design compared to sheet steel. Examples include all fastening elements, plug and socket receptacles, edge protection, damping elements and visible surfaces (in various colors) or the marking option (lettering or symbols). Furthermore, electrical and thermal insulation properties are often desired, which seamlessly merges into the NVH area (sound and vibration damping functions). Sound decoupling can also be achieved through the use of 2K injection molding, e.g. for media-carrying lines in fluid routing management or in other areas of the vehicle."

 

How do you want to support your customers even more in the future on their way to climate neutrality?

"We are already well on the way to climate neutrality. There are a wide variety of plastic variants, for example bio-based, compostable or 100% recyclable, there is a lot going on here at the moment and we are testing a wide range of options. We are also currently in the process of calculating our CO2 footprint at product level - and reducing it wherever we can. The big challenge is to achieve this without compromising on quality. However, thanks to the necessary development expertise, we are optimally positioned in this area to always offer our customers the best solutions." 

 

What is the most exciting thing for you in the field of fluid routing?

"Definitely the different fluid routing requirements that are placed on our products. There is a wide range of tasks: from air conditioning and windshield wiper fluid to fuel management and the brake system. We supply the right fastening products for the entire vehicle in a wide variety of areas."

 

How can I contact you?

"You are welcome to contact me at the following e-mail address and get in touch with me with your requests:

Walter Alexander Warnecke
Key Account Manager Automotive 
Mobile +49 173 / 353 72 72
Walter.Alexander.Warnecke@HellermannTyton.com

I look forward to your inquiries."

 

Thank you for the interview and good luck for the future.