[Contributes to shorter development lead time for car makers]

NTN Corporation (hereafter, NTN) has developed the "EBW*1 Driveshaft" by using electron beam welding*2 during the manufacturing process of inboard outer rings*3 for Constant Velocity Joint (hereafter, CVJ).

Car makers are seeking ways to reduce the development time (hereafter, development lead time) for new vehicles in order to meet diversifying market requirements. To achieve this, a shorter development lead time is required for the various parts that make up a car. This also applies to drive shafts supplied by NTN for a wide range of models, from light vehicles to SUVs*4.

Until now, the inboard outer ring was designed and manufactured specifically for each model. The newly developed "EBW Driveshaft" has a high level of reliability and is supplied with a short development lead time by using a manufacturing process that involves electron beam welding a standardized cup section that is common for each size, on to a stem section (shaft) individually designed for each model.

Electron beam welding is a technology that allows high-precision welding in a short time, and was first used by NTN for the manufacture of CVJ.

NTN will release the developed product manufactured with this new production method to global markets.

*1) Electron Beam Welding
*2) A technology where a filament is heated in a vacuum, and the discharged electrons accelerated at high voltage so that a concentrated beam collides against the work piece for welding
*3) CVJ outer ring mounted to the vehicle differential
*4) Sport Utility Vehicle
Features

Contributes to shorter development lead time for new models, and a high level of reliability

1. Commonization of outer ring cup section that differed between car makers and models (individual design only for stem section)
2. Secure and high-precision welding in a short time with electron beam welding
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