Abstract: An axle housing for an axle assembly of a vehicle is provided where the axle housing includes a center leg portion, an outer bearing configured to mount onto one end of the center leg portion, and an inner bearing configured to mount onto the opposite end of the center leg portion. The center leg portion includes a first metal sleeve, a second metal sleeve surrounding the first metal sleeve, and a corrugated inner sleeve arranged between the first and second metal sleeves. The corrugated inner sleeve has a series of corrugations that include first portions and second portions wherein the first portions are affixed to the first metal sleeve and the second portions are affixed to the second metal panel. A plurality of channel regions between the corrugations and the first metal panel and the second metal panel is formed within the axle housing.

Abstract: A thermal storage unit having at least one conduit around which a cast is made is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional piping or tubing to create conduits that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass by proving multiple passes for the fluid through the cast. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the conduit.

Abstract: A thermal storage unit having at least one annular flow channel formed between an inner and outer member is provided. The thermal storage unit uses conventional mill products to create annular flow channels that are coupled to each other via transverse channels for allowing various fluid routing arrangements and piping connections, and that economically maximize the surface area of flow in contact with the thermal mass included in the inner and outer members. This enables the thermal storage unit to economically provide heat storage as well as effective heat delivery and pressure containment for a fluid flowing through the annular channel. The thermal storage unit's size and shape are optimized and its performance enhanced by providing features for maintaining the position of the inner member within the outer member, features for providing support for the unit, and insulation.