Nozzle Adapter for
Fuel Oil Heater

As leaders in the field of metal-to-plastic conversions, we are continually identifying opportunities to assist our customers with improving the performance while reducing the cost of components currently produced in metal.

THE
PROBLEM

At K&B Molded Products, we manufactured the nozzle adapter highlighted here for use in a forced-air fuel oil heater.

While on a site visit to an existing client facility, we noticed an aluminum assembly on their factory floor that was an ideal candidate for conversion.

Machined and then drilled and tapped to accept two brass barbed ferrules, we ascertained that we could mold the part at a significantly reduced cost while also eliminating the need for the secondary threading operations.

This project presented several challenges. Prototyping revealed that when injection molded, the thick walls of the 1.0” hex shaped body left sinks, which led to difficulty holding the close internal tolerances.

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Our
Process

K&B has a proven 6-stage process that provides full-service solutions. We help companies navigate plastic injection molding methods to streamline products and processes, save money and work smarter. We don't just manufacturer the right parts, we evaluate the full process, helping companies deliver and outperform the competition.

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Circular process diagram: Design > Prototype > Tooling > Molding > Manage > Enhance

THE
SOLUTION

Our engineers resolved the issue by reducing the hex dimension to ¾”, which allowed us to achieve precise dimensional accuracy without interfering with part functionality.

The challenge to our tool makers was to form the internal threads in the main body and core the small side holes for the hose barb ferrules, all while keeping the holes open and free of flash.

After finalizing part geometry, material selection, and tooling, we injection molded the parts using glass-reinforced, high heat nylon 6/6.

The final part featured overall dimensions of 1.312” in length x 1.375” in width x .875” in height, and we upheld very close ±.002” tolerances.

The client was very impressed with the results, and especially pleased with the 90% reduction in cost when compared to the original machined aluminum version. Current production continues at the rate of 5,000 to 125,000 units per year.

SPECIFICATIONS TABLE

Project Name & Description	Chamber in which fuel oil and air are mixed for combustion
Capabilities Applied/Processes	Primary: Injection Molding Secondary: Power Hand Tools to remove mold details after part is solid
Equipment Used to Manufacture Part	70 TON shuttle Type Injection Molding Machine
Overall Part Dimensions	1.312” x 1.375” x .875”
Tightest Tolerances	±.002”
Material Used	6/6 Nylon-High Heat –Glass Reinforced
Industry for Use	Forced Air Fuel Oil Heater
Volume	As few at 5,000/year As many as 125,000/year
Delivery/Turnaround Time	3 to 4 weeks
Delivery Location	Kentucky Indiana Italy
Standards Met	Customer Supplied Print