HKO offers customized heat-resistant solutions for the automotive industry, optimized for today's combustion engine vehicles, through decades of experience and modern development. Our solutions provide an excellent thermal barrier and reduce noise levels in the vehicle and engine compartment. Custom solutions include insulation for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, particle filters, and silencers, as well as protective solutions for fluid lines, assemblies, and electronic components.
Heat protection textiles for vehicles with combustion engines
Heat protection shields
HKO develops customized heat-resistant solutions for the automotive industry, specifically designed for the use in heat protection systems and to meet various temperature demands. Whether as a protective layer or direct insulation, HKO products are now integrated into numerous vehicle models.
The heat protection materials of the HAKOTHERM® product group are designed not only to provide an excellent thermal barrier but also to effectively reduce noise levels in the engine compartment.
Manifold insulation
The exhaust manifold connects the engine block to the exhaust system and must withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1,000 °C. Made from cast iron or stainless steel, it can range from simple collector pipes to complex, double-walled constructions. In addition to air-gap insulated manifolds, those with additional insulation are also used. For these manifolds, HKO offers customized 2D stamped parts made from needle mats and sewn fabric mats, which are tailored to different temperature ranges.
These materials are harmless to health, help minimize heat loss, and protect surrounding components from excessive heat. Furthermore, HKO's insulation solutions are characterized by their excellent resistance to vibrations and pulsations as well as their high temperature stability.
Catalyst, particle filter and silencer insulation
Due to the extreme gas temperatures, the inlet and outlet areas of catalytic converters must be carefully insulated, as they are typically exposed to temperatures ranging from 800° to 1,000 °C. Similar challenges also arise with particle filters.
The high thermal loads and intense pulsations in absorption and reflection silencers make the use of HKO materials indispensable. The sound-absorbing properties of mineral fiber products also play a crucial role.
For the insulation of catalytic converters, particle filters, and silencers, HKO offers precise 2D stamped parts made from needle mats and needle stictch-bonded mats , which are optimized for different temperature ranges.
Cable protection and fluid line insulation
In modern vehicle technology, which increasingly includes sensitive electronic components and innovative auxiliary units, effective shielding and protective measures are crucial. The rising temperatures in the engine compartment require protective solutions for:
- Hydraulic lines
- Fuel lines
- Brake lines
- Wiring harnesses
- Other electronic components
HKO focuses on providing high-quality products for customized solutions. Our solutions serve as base materials for the production of heat shields, sleeves, and protective hoses. These products enable our customers to meet their specific protection requirements through individual adjustments and processing.
Insulation solutions in hydrogen technologies
HKO offers specialized base materials that serve as the foundation for the development of advanced insulation solutions in hydrogen technology. Our products are designed to maximize the efficiency and performance of fuel cells and hydrogen systems, enabling the production of customized applications. In hydrogen electrolysis, DEFENSOR-Flex® Multilayer or HAKOTHERM®-1200 needle mats contribute as insulations that minimize heat loss and improve efficiency. Additionally, our products are used as the basis for insulations in hydrogen engines to protect components from overheating. The lightweight, thin, and flexible mats allow for high design flexibility and space savings without compromising performance.
