Coupler Module
The hydraulic coupler is surrounded by diesel fuel at a pressure of approximately 10 bar. The piezo-element acts on the upper plunger (1).
Lower plunger (6) rests on control valve (9). The force of spring (7) and of spring (8) is set in such a way that, when closed, the piezo element and control valve (9) are connected free of play via the coupler module.
The upper plunger (1) presses against coupler chamber (5) when the piezo-element is activated.
The force of the piezo-element is increased since plunger (1) has a larger diameter than plunger (6). Plunger (6) opens the control valve (9). When the coupler chamber is pressurized during activation, a small leakage quantity escapes via the clearance in the plunger guide into fuel return (2).
| Index | Explanation |
|---|---|
| A | Fuel feed |
| B | High pressure fuel |
| 1 | Plunger |
| 2 | Fuel return |
| 3 | Spring |
| 4 | Coupler |
| 5 | Coupler chamber |
| 6 | Plunger |
| 7 | Spring |
| 8 | Spring |
| 9 | Control valve |
After injection or after the piezo-element has been switched off, the springs (7 and 8) balance out the play created by the leakage quantity and fuel is again drawn via the clearance in the piston guide into the coupler chamber. This balancing out process takes place so fast that the coupler chamber is completely filled again by the next injection cycle.
A return pressure of approximately 10 bar is required for this purpose, which is achieved by the restrictor in the fuel return of the fuel injectors. The control valve is not operated and no fuel is injected when no pressure is applied in the fuel feed.