Lord Corp. has plans to build a 1,000-square-foot production cell for military vehicle Magneto-Rheological suspensions within its Cambridge Springs, Pa., plant
. The $1 million production cell is being built in response to demand for military vehicles and heavy-duty truck applications.

Lord is currently working on projects with the U.S. government and vehicle OEMs on several vehicle platforms, including the HMMWV, FMTV, MRAPs, as well as opportunities with foreign militaries.

"Lord MR suspension systems are well-suited for a wide range of military applications, from lightweight tactical vehicles to line-haul tractors and heavy MRAP vehicles," said Ray Misjan, Lord program manager for MR suspension systems. "Vehicles outfitted with our system experience less wear and tear, leading to longer vehicle life and greater fuel efficiency. Our product enables greater stability and vehicle body control, allowing increased safety for the driver and occupants, and significantly improved ride quality."

According to the company, the MR suspension system can react quickly to changes in terrain and vehicle dynamic maneuvers. The system includes a controller, damper, as well as software that can be tuned to optimize the vehicle's performance.

Lord says the system also provides about 30 percent less pitch and roll, which improves the vehicle's stability and handling characteristics. The system also reduces absorbed energy by 50 percent or more and peak loads by more than 60 percent.

The company started planning for the MR line in January. The new production cell will support a broad ranging product line.

"We designed the first production system to fit our early demonstration products; however, our equipment will accommodate a +/-30 percent change in diameter and length envelope," said Jim Robertson, Lord senior staff manufacturing engineer.

More info: www.lord.com/mr