wiredinUSA August 2014

Guglielmo Fiocchi, CEO of Sogefi, said: “Research and development is a key factor for the future growth of Sogefi. Innovation in the car sector, starting from reducing weight and improving theefficiencyof vehicles, now depends significantly on the components companies. Sogefi in particular is gradually increasing its investment in research and development, which has gone up in recent years from around two percent to just under three percent of its total revenues.” Sogefi claims this innovation also guarantees a significant reduction of CO 2 emissions during the manufacturing process as the overall energy required is significantly lower than in traditional steel coil spring manufacturing. The concept of a composite spring is not new, however. Chevrolet introduced the fully composite-sprung C4 Corvette in 1984, but unlike the Audi’s coils the Corvette featured a single transverse leaf spring at the front and rear. Alcoa Fastening Systems’ Huck ® brand C50L ® fastener is a key component in a major Scottish construction project, due to be opened later this year. The Kelpies is a 30m-high steel monument commemorating Scotland’s horse-powered heritage, andprovidingadramaticgateway to the Forth and Clyde Canal entrance on the country’s east coast. Over 12,000 Huck C50L lockbolts were supplied by distributor Permalok Fastening Systems Ltd. Fasteners key to Kelpie monument

“Triton really is an ingenious solution and one that I am sure will go on to be a popular and successful addition to our extensive range,” Mr Shaw added.

Triton – believed to be the world’s first two-in-one cable guide. Photograph courtesy of Ellis Cleats

Italian designs for spring

Sogefi of Milan, working with Audi, has developed a patented coil spring technology using fiber reinforced composites. The coil spring is made from glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) which weighs between 40 and 70 percent less than traditional steel springs. The new GFRP springs can be assembled on cars and light commercial vehicles without affecting the suspension system architecture and allow for a weight reduction of 4kg to 6kg (9lb to 13lb) per vehicle depending on spring design and vehicle type. The resulting benefits are said to include lower fuel consumption, enhanced comfort and protection against corrosion.

wiredInUSA - August 2014

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