NSG Group's glass fiber cord (Product name: Glass Cord) for engine timing belts is used in the Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system that can help to cut fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions.

The EPAS technology has been developed by NGF EUROPE Limited's (NGFE, one of NSG Group subsidiaries) customer Gates Power Transmission with ThyssenKrupp. The system delivers a fuel saving of around three to four per cent, with a consequent reduction in CO2 emissions, because it only requires power during actual manoeuvring, unlike standard hydraulic systems, which are a constant drain on the engine.

The EPAS drive belt uses 0.2mm Glass Cord produced at NGFE. The diameter is key to this application because the belt has to go around a tight pulley system, which requires it to be extremely flexible. The Glass Cord, which actually spirals around the rubber belt, is also coated with our RFL latex composition for optimum adhesion.

EPAS is already used in around 2 millions vehicles in the European market and its adoption is expected to increase throughout Europe and North America. Demand for NGFE Glass Cord will increase as vehicles with EPAS system become main stream all over the world.

EPAS – Electric Power Assisted Steering replaces the hydraulic steering system.