Since launching IROX® polymer-coated engine bearings in 2010, Federal-Mogul Corporation’s Powertrain Segment has established an industry-leading position with this innovative bearing technology.
In less than three years, IROX bearings have launched with four of the largest global OEMs on three continents. IROX is an innovative polymer-coated engine bearing that enables reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. It withstands high mechanical loads in efficient, heavily boosted engines and also addresses the lubrication challenges associated with frequent re-starts found in stop-start engines.
In extreme duty applications, the IROX coating can significantly extend bearing life. IROX has enabled engine manufacturers to meet the needs of start-stop applications in downsized engines, and as a result, Federal-Mogul is experiencing significant demand for this new product.
Federal-Mogul expects to produce more than 70 million IROX bearings annually beginning in 2016. In North America within the next 3 years, 30 percent of the new engines assembled will feature IROX bearings, with applications for both light- and heavy-duty vehicles.
To accommodate this dramatic growth, the company has planned for additional capacity at its manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe and Asia. “We’re extremely pleased with the rapid market acceptance of IROX by light and commercial global vehicle customers worldwide,” said Richard Llope, senior vice president and general manager, Bearings and Ignition, Federal-Mogul Powertrain. “IROX is a great example of how innovation in fundamental base engine components can enhance the efficiency and reliability of internal combustion engines and support customer and market requirements for environmental responsiveness.”
IROX was also recently named a winner in the 2013 Automotive News PACE™ Awards, which recognizes automotive suppliers for superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance.
Engineering for IROX is conducted at Federal-Mogul’s technical facilities in Wiesbaden, Germany and Plymouth, Michigan and manufactured at several global locations.
