Integrated Oil Filtration and Cooling Modules for Commercial Vehicles

Engine oil systems in modern commercial vehicles must combine efficient filtration with precise temperature control to maintain durability and extended service intervals. In this context, UFI is supplying integrated oil filtration modules with heat exchangers for Renault Trafic and Renault Master vans equipped with 2.0-litre Blue dCi engines.

Combined filtration and thermal management in a single module
Commercial vehicle engines operate under high thermal and mechanical loads, requiring lubrication systems that maintain oil cleanliness and stable operating temperatures. For Renault’s 2.0-litre Blue dCi diesel engines used in the Trafic and Master van range, UFI provides a complete oil filtration module that integrates both functions in a compact housing.

The module combines an engine oil filter and heat exchanger within a die-cast aluminium body. This configuration allows the lubrication system to perform particle filtration while simultaneously regulating oil temperature through a heat exchanger integrated directly into the same structure.

The integrated design reflects broader trends in automotive thermal management, where compact modules reduce packaging space while maintaining serviceability in modern vehicle platforms.

Filter design optimized for capacity and maintenance intervals
The filter element inside the module uses a cartridge with FormulaUFI.CELL cellulose filter media. The design incorporates a specialized internal sealing system separating the “dirty” side of the filter—where unfiltered lubricant enters—from the clean oil outlet after the filtration stage.

This internal seal required the development of a specific geometry and material formulation to maintain full sealing of the oil circuit under operating conditions.

The filtration system was engineered to meet strict durability and service-life requirements. The filter achieves 99 percent efficiency for particles larger than 40 microns while supporting a replacement interval of up to 40,000 kilometres.

The cartridge used in Renault’s original equipment module is also available in the aftermarket under two brands: UFI (part number 25.267.00) and SOFIMA (part number S 5267 PE). The design of the module allows relatively simple replacement of the cartridge during maintenance operations.




Compact heat exchanger architecture for lubricant temperature control
The module also incorporates a heat exchanger responsible for regulating oil temperature during engine operation. A key aspect of this design concerns oil bypass management, which determines how much lubricant flows through the cooling circuit depending on operating temperature.

Conventional systems typically use a thermostatic valve to control bypass flow. In the UFI module, this function is performed by a calibrated orifice, whose dimensions were defined through fluid dynamics simulations. The resulting configuration meets the vehicle manufacturer’s packaging requirements while maintaining effective cooling control.

Another structural feature is the direct integration of the coolant flow path within the aluminium body of the module. This design removes the need for additional external piping.

The heat exchangers are manufactured from aluminium using a vacuum brazing process, a technique that improves structural integrity and heat transfer compared with conventional steel systems. Improved thermal efficiency contributes to lower engine operating temperatures and can support reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

Application in Renault Blue dCi commercial vehicle engines
The oil module is designed for Renault’s latest generation 2.0-litre Blue dCi diesel engine used in commercial vans. The engine features a four-cylinder architecture, 1,997 cm³ displacement, and high-pressure common-rail fuel injection.

Several power variants are available, including 105 hp, 130 hp, 150 hp, and 170 hp versions. These engines power the Renault Trafic and Renault Master van ranges used in logistics, service fleets, and commercial transport.

In such applications, reliable lubrication and temperature control are critical for long operating hours and extended maintenance intervals. Integrated oil filtration and engine thermal management modules support these requirements by combining filtration capacity, temperature regulation, and compact installation within the engine compartment.

www.ufifilters.com

Edited by industrial journalist, Aishwarya Mambet.