First Line matches OE specs with innovative new materials

Light materials such as plastics can now be used in a far wider range of components, First Line say

First Line matches OE specs with innovative new materials
First Line engine mount.

In a pursuit to cut emissions, VMs are intent on reducing the weight of their vehicles, as a ten per cent weight saving can lead to an impressive six to eight per cent reduction in fuel consumption and subsequently, emissions.

By adopting new materials, VM’s can find some of these weight reductions within steering and suspension components and as the UK’s largest supplier of replacement steering and suspension parts, First Line Ltd is reflecting this OE movement within its range.

When it comes to load bearing structural elements like engine mounts, steel and aluminium structures have traditionally been used, however, engine mounts with the structural part made from plastics are appearing more regularly on mainstream production vehicles such as on the Vauxhall Astra 09> (First Line – FEM4097) and on the Vauxhall Vectra 02>09 (First Line – FEM3999).

In technical terms, the material used is PA66+50GF, which is polyamide reinforced with 50 per cent fibreglass.

In addition to weight saving reductions, which can be as much as 35 per cent when compared to steel or aluminium, this material has many benefits such as better load distribution on the axles.

Load reduction on the front axles has a positive effect on the driving dynamics and enhances driving safety.

Two other benefits come in the form of being resistant to rust and corrosion and they exhibit the same or improved noise, vibration and harshness properties.

Steering and suspension components

When it comes to steering and suspension components, such as stabiliser link bars, which are highly demanding components, new technology is also making its presence felt.

In a number of VAG applications for example, carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) is used due to its immense strength to weight ratio.

Although this material is more expensive, VM’s are investing in its development, meaning that premium quality aftermarket suppliers like First Line must follow suit in order to match the OE specifications.

First Line not only supplies the aftermarket with this new technology (First Line part number FDL7441), it also offers the preceding traditional design link bar (First Line number FDL6732).

Although First Line provides both parts, best practice is not to mix the two versions on the same vehicle and that they are always replaced in pairs.

Managing director at First Line Ltd, Dan Joyner said: “There is a danger that the use of plastic in these components may cause technicians to think that they are of less quality and strength, however this is not the case.

“The plastics used are incredibly strong and have some great advantages compared to aluminium and steel, such as weight reduction and greater comfort and control. CFRP is an expensive material, commonly used in the aerospace industry and for the production of sports cars so it’s move into mainstream automotive manufacturing must offer significant benefits.”

For more information about the products available from the First Line Ltd, call 01869 248484 or follow the ‘more details’ link below.

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