Reducing extractor size can limit noise ingress, but it also restricts airflow—causing doors to close with greater effort. And when it comes to customer satisfaction, doors that are hard to close tend to generate more complaints than background cabin noise. 

This challenge becomes more complex as airflow, NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), and available packaging space compete for priority. Traditionally, HVAC teams are responsible for airflow design, while NVH engineers work to minimize unwanted noise. If noise levels exceed thresholds, NVH teams often add insulation. But excessive insulation can hinder airflow—reigniting complaints about door closure efforts. This back-and-forth between teams can lead to late-stage design changes, costly production delays, or even post-launch warranty claims. 

ITW Automotive eliminates the guesswork and rework by engaging cross-functional teams early in the development process. By collaborating closely with HVAC, NVH, and body closure teams from the outset, we ensure airflow and noise targets are achieved together—not traded off.

Many ITW air extractors are equipped with pre-installed NVH covers, designed to optimize airflow while managing sound paths. During development, our engineers use physical prototypes to fine-tune cover size and geometry. Airflow is validated in our in-house airflow chamber, while acoustic performance is measured through a partnership with a leading university.

ITW’s Pressure Relief Valves (PRVs) incorporate design innovations that improve airflow by up to 20% compared to conventional extractors. While NVH covers may slightly reduce airflow at the component level, they typically allow for overall airflow improvements at the vehicle level by minimizing the need for external insulation materials—materials that can sag, detach or otherwise interfere with airflow if misapplied.

Our rigid polypropylene covers protect and preserve the space around the extractor, ensuring a clear, unobstructed flow path. They also help redirect noise away from passengers, giving HVAC and body teams more control over airflow management, while providing NVH engineers earlier insight and greater control over cabin acoustics.

Covers can be tailored to specific vehicle needs. External covers deflect noise outward, while internal covers absorb sound or redirect it away from passengers. Additional insulation can be integrated to boost acoustic performance. ITW air extractors feature front and rear retention features, allowing covers to be clipped securely into place. This modular architecture enables rapid adaptation across programs with varying acoustic and packaging requirements.

To reduce cost and complexity, ITW delivers air extractors with covers pre-installed. This helps OEMs simplify their bill of materials, eliminate redundant insulation materials, and reduce final assembly efforts.

ITW Automotive’s NVH covers provide a system-level solution that balances airflow, noise control, and packaging efficiency. OEMs benefit from fewer parts, faster installations, and improved quality—with reduced risk of last-minute design changes or warranty issues.

By integrating airflow and NVH management into a single, modular solution, ITW helps automakers streamline production, enhance cabin comfort, and deliver a better overall driving experience.