| abstract |
An improved fuel rail for delivering fuel to a fuel injector for an internal combustion engine is provided that reduces the weight of the fuel injection system, greatly reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating expensive manufacturing methods, such as brazing, high heat welding, post plating, blow molding, and extrusion, and enhances low-cost, low-energy methods for attachment of fuel system components to the fuel rail. The improved fuel rail includes an tubular body defining a fluid chamber and having an inlet through which fuel enters the fluid chamber and a fuel injector port in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. The port is configured to receive the fuel injector. The tubular body is formed as a laminate having an inner metallic layer and an outer polymeric layer. The inner metallic layer may comprise aluminum and the outer polymeric layer may comprise nylon. Plastic or metal components can be attached to the laminated tubular body while providing a fluid tight, pressurized joint. |