1. The Whole Enchilada: A Systems Approach to Variable Displacement Compressors
When it comes to supplying automotive manufacturers, DENSO is all about going that extra mile. Not just in quality parts and performance, but as value-added experts in systems integration.
It is a simple formula really: weave systems knowledge into every customer interaction so that parts perform exactly as expected and production proceeds without a hitch. DENSO’s externally controlled variable displacement compressor (EVDC) offers the perfect case-in-point.
Developed by DENSO Japan (DNJP), DENSO International America (DIAM) engineers began introducing EVDCs in 2005 to Detroit automakers as a fuel-economizing option to fixed displacement compressors, which were the industry standard at the time.
EVDCs, which are optimally running versus the on/off of a fixed displacement compressor (FDC), create a more effective refrigerant cycle and enable more predictable engine calibration, which saves fuel.
DENSO began supplying EVDC to the Detroit Three automakers starting in 2008 and by 2012, they were the industry standard.
From Fixed to Variable
“We were conducting many tests and validating the EVDCs for our customers,” explained Bryan Kelley, who joined DENSO in 2006 and is a Sales Director. “The switch from a fixed compressor to one that’s on all the time is significant. So, we tested their system and our compressor and provided more than just test results … we offered solutions on how to make our part effectively function within their complicated thermal system.”
This was critical because without DENSO’s EVDC technology, automakers in North America would not have met government-required fuel economy standards.
“We were bringing needed technology to our customers in North America and supporting the application of that technology with our whole-vehicle expertise,” said Chris Rainey, Senior Application Engineer at DENSO. “When we introduce a new component, we start with quality and performance, but we also invite a look at the vehicle, the environment and the system. That’s the DENSO process. Then we recommend reviewing the validation plan and determining if we’ve missed anything.”
“Finally,” Kelley adds, “We step back and look holistically at the entire thermal experience and then test it all in our advanced testing facility.”
Significant Market Growth
Before DIAM brought EVDC technology to North America, DENSO supplied a small percentage of the regional market. After EVDCs became the industry norm, DENSO boosted its market share to more than 50%.
Today, DENSO is advancing its Green Great Cause by leveraging its thermal and systems expertise with an innovative electric compressor that our EV customers are using for their growing lineup of battery electric vehicles.
“EVDCs represent a pillar of success for DENSO in North America with more than $1 billion in annual sales,” Kelley shared.
In fact, compressors have always opened doors to new markets and additional business for DENSO. Compressors were some of the first parts supplied to the Detroit Three. From there followed other thermal components and finally, the entire HVAC system.
And keeping those doors open since the mid-20th century has been an unbeatable combination of quality, performance and technology coupled with DENSO’s customer-first engineering approach of ensuring the part performs as expected within any vehicle system.