NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

For release: 04-22-04
Photo release #: 04-117

Thanks to NASA technology, patented high-strength aluminum alloy makes outboard motors quieter and cleaner

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Jonathan Lee, a NASA structural materials engineer, displays engine blocks and pistons as examples of some of the uses for NASA's patented High-Strength Aluminum Alloy. The alloy was originally developed at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., as a solution to reduce the costs of aluminum engine pistons and lower engine emissions for the automobile industry. NASA also wanted an alloy for aerospace applications with higher strength and wear-resistance at elevated temperatures. The Boats and Outboard Engines Division at Bombardier Recreational Products of Sturtevant, Wis. , is using the alloy for pistons in its Evinrude® E-TEC™ outboard engine line. (NASA/MSFC/Emmett Given)

 

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NASA's High-Strength Aluminum Alloy is used for pistons in the 40-90 horsepower range of the Evinrude® E-TEC™ outboard engine line. The alloy, developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala., makes outboard engines quieter and cleaner while improving fuel mileage and increasing engine durability. The new piston design reduces the so-called "slapping" sound when pistons slide up and down in the engine's cylinder. The engines comply with California Air Resources Board emissions standards — some of the most stringent in the United States. Evinrude is part of the Boats and Outboard Engines Division at Bombardier Recreational Products of Sturtevant, Wis. (Bombardier Recreational Products )

Contact Jerry Berg Media Relations Dept. (256) 544-0034 Dave Thompson, Director of Communications Bombardier Recreational Products Boats and Outboard Engines Division Sturtevant, Wis. (262) 884-5399)

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