New Thermal Management Module Meets Increased Engine Cooling Requirements for Start-Stop and Hybrid Systems

The "split cooling" concept allows adequate temperature control of the sub-circuits within the engine

New repair solution covers parking lot for more than 2 million cars

The Schaeffler Group is a leading global bearing supplier to the automotive and industrial sectors.

The automotive aftermarket division of automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler is expanding its range of thermal management modules under the INA brand. Since 2011, Schaeffler has been a series supplier for many vehicles with its first-generation thermal management modules. In close cooperation with car manufacturers, Schaeffler has developed thermal management modules capable of controlling the coolant temperature in various cooling circuits as required. This allows the engine to reach its optimum operating temperature faster. Driving comfort is improved and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced. The module has been continuously developed over the years. The second generation is now exclusively sold by Schaeffler in the independent aftermarket as a complete repair solution.

Second generation thermal management module

The second-generation thermal management module is still based on a rotary spool valve that controls coolant flow based on driving conditions. However, the new actuator concept with two independent rotary spool valves offers a significant improvement in functionality. One valve controls the flow of coolant to and from the radiator, and the other separates the engine cooling circuit in the cylinder head and block. This makes it possible to realize the so-called "split cooling" concept.

The concept meets the higher demands placed on the engine in start-stop or hybrid operation and ensures optimal temperature control of the cylinder head and cylinder block through more targeted cooling. The frictional power in the combustion chamber is significantly reduced when switching from pure electric mode or during longer stationary phases during start-stop operation. This results in optimized combustion, reduced wear and reduced CO2 emissions.

“Thermal management plays a central role in improving energy efficiency and reducing vehicle CO2 emissions. Smart controls that fine-tune increasingly complex cooling and heating circuits ensure that all relevant systems are always operating within an optimal temperature range. This protects the environment and At the same time, the service life of the components is extended. According to the development of the global automotive market, we are constantly developing our thermal management product range,” explains Maik Evers, Head of Product Management Automotive Aftermarket at Schaeffler.

Expanded range: Repair solutions for BMW and MINI

Previously, Schaeffler exclusively supplied thermal management modules for Volkswagen Group vehicles in the independent aftermarket. The range has now been expanded to include two part numbers for BMW and MINI engines, also exclusively distributed by Schaeffler: part number 538 0810 10 for 3- and 4-cylinder engines (B38 and B48) and part number 538 0811 10 For 6-cylinder engine Cylinder engine (B58). The two-part figures already cover a car ownership of more than 2 million vehicles, a figure that will double over the next three years.