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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.

The required Fuel Economy improvement to meet increasing CAFE standards and the global trend to reduce CO2 emissions has prompted automakers to look at new technologies and optimize current technologies. One area of focus is the reduction of mechanical energy losses in driveline systems, which translate to less fuel consumption. Even though the driveline and chassis components account for only 2% (approximately) of the total mechanical losses in passenger vehicles, automakers have shown interest in maximizing the mechanical efficiency of driveline systems. A key component of any driveline system is the Halfshaft (HS), consisting of two Constant Velocity Joints (CVJ’s). The efficiency of CVJ’s is dependent on the joint architecture, angle of operation, transmitted torque, rotational speed and the grease selected for lubrication. Premium Tripots have the highest mechanical efficiency among CVJ’s. Ball-type joints tend to have lower efficiency.