The Boot Heater

Delphi Automotive Steering Systems in Athens, Alabama recently installed six single- and two double-heat zone infrared boot heaters developed by ORNL. The infrared boot heater is an electric infrared heater and control system designed to heat thermoplastic and polymer boots for applications requiring placement of the boots on steering assemblies, CV joints, etc. The infrared boot heater heats and expands the boot in a matter of 4 to 5 seconds. This slight expansion virtually eliminates the force required to install the boot. The subsequent cooling of the boot then makes a better seal than if the boot had been forced on without the application of heat. The response from the assembly line employees who have used this product has been extremely positive. In many cases, ergonomic problems have virtually been eliminated and production has increased. As quoted from the Director of Research and Development at Delphi Automotive Steering Systems: "The infrared boot heater virtually eliminates the force required to install the boot. This reduction in force results in the elimination of the ergonomic problems associated with placing the boot on the steering assembly." The prototype system designed by ORNL has had over a half million parts expanded and installed with it.

Infrared Boot Heater being utilized at Delphi Automotive Steering Systems