A Greener Future with Akulon® Fuel Lock

Introduction

In the pursuit of reducing greenhouse gases and complying with stringent environmental regulations, manufacturers are increasingly turning to innovative materials that offer superior performance and environmental benefits. As a solution, Akulon® Fuel Lock, an advanced nylon (PA6) monolayer technology, is transforming the landscape of fuel tank manufacturing. With its exceptional barrier to evaporative emissions and compliance with both EPA and CARB standards, Akulon® Fuel Lock presents a sustainable alternative to traditional HDPE fluorinated tanks.

Evolution of Emissions Regulations

In the 1980s, CARB (California Air Resources Board) conducted a research study to understand what contributes to greenhouse gases and smog in California. This study found that Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) was a significant contributor, and as a result, CARB developed an evaporative emissions limit. As it stands today, the evaporative emissions limit is .5 g/m²/day. The EPA underwent a study in 2000 to gain a greater understanding of greenhouse gases resulting in extending the CARB regulation to the entire U.S.

Many OPE manufacturers turned to the fluorination of polyethylene tanks as a way to build a barrier technology to meet the evaporative emissions requirements. Fluorination relies on the highly toxic chemical, hydrofluoric acid, which is released into the environment at varying levels during the process. Fluorinating HDPE fuel tanks provides a thin surface treatment of ~0.2 microns thickness in batch processes - yielding an average barrier performance 2xbelow the specification. With time, the thin barrier on the tanks can experience erosion during typical use of the equipment (e.g. surface abrasion or wear), leading to a less effective product and ultimately creating an environment where the tank fails to meet EPA evaporative emissions limit.

Additionally, in a letter issued by the EPA in 2022, the agency stated that the presence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) formed as a byproduct in containers, could be a violation of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This includes manufacturers of products that use small gas tanks, such as chain saws, trimmers, generators, pressure washers, snow blowers, water pumps, riding tractors, lawn mowers and recreational sporting equipment, including snowmobiles, golf carts, personal watercraft, motorcycles, ATVs, utility vehicles, etc.

A Solution Which Considers the Environment

Recognizing the environmental and health risks associated with the chemicals used in producing HDPE fluorinated tanks, many major manufacturers are now seeking greener alternatives. Enter Akulon® Fuel Lock: an innovative solution born from the necessity for more eco-friendly options in the wake of stricter emissions regulations. This enhanced nylon (PA6) monolayer technology not only meets these regulations but also serves as a highly functional replacement for HDPE in various applications, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

With a permeation rate that is less than 1/6 that of the EPA limit, it is an excellent barrier to evaporative emissions and is guaranteed to last for the lifetime of the product. Being both EPA and CARB compliant, Akulon® Fuel Lock is a flawless drop-in solution to existing HDPE manufacturing processes while simultaneously eliminating the need for dangerous chemicals.

Akulon® Fuel Lock: PA6 Solution with Multiple Benefits

Early adopters of this solution have already experienced many benefits such as reduced carbon footprint, avoided hydrofluoric acid hazards, lowered inventory costs, reduced supply chain complexity, and reinforced their credibility for sound environmental stewardship while eliminating regulatory non-compliance risk associated with the fluorinated HDPE tanks.

Additional Benefits of Akulon® Fuel Lock

• Being a PA6, Akulon® Fuel Lock has high impact resistance at cold temperatures to -40°C, which is something fluorinated HDPE containers struggle to provide.
• Offers the ability to design thinner-wall fuel tanks that reduce the overall weight while increasing fuel capacity.
• While Fuel Lock has been well known to utilize standard injection molding and blow molding tools and machines, it is now expanding into the Roto molding industry as well

Conclusion

As the demand for environmentally friendly solutions continues to rise, Akulon® Fuel Lock presents a groundbreaking alternative to traditional HDPE fluorinated tanks. This advanced nylon (PA6) technology not only meets stringent EPA and CARB emissions standards but also offers superior durability and performance.

To learn more about how Akulon® Fuel Lock can transform your products and support your commitment to sustainability, reach out to Channel Prime Alliance today for detailed information and expert guidance.