Fel-Pro(R) PermaTorque(R) MLS Performance Head Gaskets' Layers are Key Differentiator for Reliability
Southfield, Michigan, February 20, 2012...Multi-layer-steel (MLS) head gaskets continue to revolutionize engine sealing in the performance market. But what are the key differences between today's multiple brands of performance MLS head gaskets, the majority of which are produced by just two manufacturers?
One key area of differentiation - and a leading contributor to gasket reliability - is the number of layers in each MLS design, according to Fel-Pro(R) Performance Gaskets Product Manager Ron Rotunno. Engineered and manufactured by Federal-Mogul Corporation (NASDAQ: FDML), Fel-Pro PermaTorque(R) MLS performance gaskets feature a minimum of four layers - three active layers and one shim layer - to meet the needs of today's high-output engines. In some cases, Federal-Mogul sealing engineers specify five layers to address the unique requirements of extremely demanding applications. The other major U.S.-based MLS manufacturer, by contrast, typically utilizes three layers in its performance MLS designs.
"When you understand the dynamic sealing environment created within a high-output engine you can see that more layers bring greater recovery and ensure proper sealing stress as the cylinder head moves horizontally and vertically against the engine deck surface during combustion," Rotunno said. "The fewer the layers in the gasket, the more limited the range of recovery it can provide. And once the gasket loses sealing contact pressure between the castings, you're going to see leakage between the cylinders."
Federal-Mogul's emphasis on providing world-class designs and materials in every Fel-Pro part has helped make PermaTorque MLS gaskets the dominant choice of leading NASCAR(R) Sprint Cup, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series teams. These gaskets are also the leading head sealing technology in NHRA Pro Stock and other premier racing series.
In addition to featuring more layers than most competing MLS gaskets, Fel-Pro PermaTorque MLS performance head gaskets are equipped with Federal-Mogul's exclusive LaserWeld(TM) stopper layer, which helps maximize combustion sealing by precisely controlling the compression of each of the gasket's layers. This helps reduce head lift, prevents gasket damage and ensures a superior combustion seal over a broader range of operating conditions.
"Rising cooling system temperatures in NASCAR competition have led to increased expansion of aluminum cylinder heads, which threatens to overcome the recoverability of conventional MLS performance gaskets," said Fel-Pro Performance Gaskets Chief Engineer Greg West. "Our LaserWeld technology provides a crucial added margin of safety for engines that are pushed to their limits."
Developed in conjunction with engine manufacturers and leading Sprint Cup teams and NHRA engine builders, Fel-Pro PermaTorque MLS head gaskets also feature precisely engineered sealing beads and advanced polymer coatings to provide leak-free performance over a wide range of operating conditions.
"PermaTorque MLS gaskets are the clear benchmark for head sealing technology in the world's toughest racing series as well as in a growing range of street-performance applications," said Rotunno. "Our engineering team continues to build on this legacy by incorporating new gasket features - including leading-edge combustion seal designs - into the PermaTorque MLS product line."
The same PermaTorque MLS performance head gaskets run in NASCAR, NHRA, World of Outlaws and other racing series are available through virtually any leading performance parts provider.