REHAU Powers Volkswagen Engines with High-Performance Connecting Rods

Leesburg, VA – November 8, 2023 – REHAU INDUSTRIES LLC, a leading global specialist in polymer technology, is quietly playing a critical role in the performance and reliability of Volkswagen engines across various models. While REHAU might be a familiar name in building and construction for its window and door profiles, the company boasts a significant, yet often unseen, presence in the automotive industry – specifically through its high-precision connecting rods. For those not deeply into car mechanics, connecting rods are a vital engine component. They connect the pistons to the crankshaft, transferring power generated by combustion into rotational motion that ultimately drives the wheels. They're under immense stress – constant cyclical loading, high temperatures, and demanding performance requirements. That's where REHAU’s expertise shines. “We don’t just make plastic; we engineer solutions,” explains a representative from REHAU’s automotive division. “For years, we've been partnering with major automakers like Volkswagen to develop lighter, stronger, and more durable components. The connecting rods are a prime example of that commitment." Beyond Metal: The REHAU Advantage Traditionally, connecting rods are made of forged steel or aluminum alloys. REHAU, however, has pioneered the use of a specially formulated polyamide composite material for these critical components. This isn't your average plastic; it's a highly engineered polymer boasting exceptional mechanical properties. “Moving away from traditional metals offers a number of benefits,” says the REHAU spokesperson. “Firstly, it's significantly lighter. Reducing weight in reciprocating engine parts – like connecting rods – directly translates to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. That’s a big win for everyone.” But weight reduction isn’t the only advantage. REHAU’s polyamide composite also excels in several other key areas: High Strength & Durability: The material is engineered to withstand the extreme stresses within an engine, providing long-lasting performance and reliability. It's tested rigorously to ensure it meets – and often exceeds – Volkswagen’s stringent quality standards. Reduced Friction: The polymer material exhibits lower friction compared to metal, leading to smoother engine operation and potentially contributing to slightly improved power output. Noise Reduction: The inherent damping properties of the polymer help to absorb vibrations and reduce engine noise, contributing to a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. Corrosion Resistance: Unlike metal components, REHAU’s polyamide connecting rods are immune to corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability even in harsh operating conditions. Design Flexibility: Polymer materials offer greater design flexibility, allowing REHAU to optimize the connecting rod’s shape and geometry for maximum performance and efficiency. Volkswagen’s Confidence in REHAU Volkswagen’s decision to adopt REHAU’s polyamide connecting rods across certain engine lines speaks volumes about the company’s commitment to innovation and performance. The collaboration wasn’t a simple supplier-customer relationship; it involved close engineering collaboration between REHAU and Volkswagen’s powertrain development teams. “We worked hand-in-hand with Volkswagen’s engineers to develop a connecting rod that met their specific requirements,” explains the REHAU representative. “This involved extensive testing, simulation, and prototyping to ensure optimal performance, durability, and reliability. It wasn’t just about replacing a metal part with plastic; it was about creating a superior solution." While Volkswagen hasn't publicly released detailed performance figures specifically attributed to the REHAU connecting rods, industry experts note the shift towards lighter engine components is a key trend in modern automotive engineering. The adoption of polymer connecting rods, like those produced by REHAU, is helping automakers meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and emission standards. REHAU: Beyond Automotive While their work with Volkswagen highlights their automotive capabilities, REHAU’s expertise extends far beyond the automotive sector. The company is a global leader in polymer processing, serving a diverse range of industries including construction, furniture, medical technology, and more. Headquartered in Leesburg, Virginia, REHAU INDUSTRIES LLC operates as the North American division of the REHAU Group, a privately-held company with a long history of innovation and a global footprint. Their dedication to materials science and engineering positions them as a key player in developing sustainable and high-performance solutions for a wide range of applications. “We’re not just a materials supplier; we’re a problem solver,” concludes the REHAU representative. “We work closely with our customers to understand their challenges and develop innovative solutions that meet their specific needs. The Volkswagen connecting rods are a perfect example of that commitment.”