Super-Strength (1800 MPa) steel has finally been effectively incorporated in the manufacturing process to produce high quality automobile parts. This crucial breakthrough was achieved by global automotive manufacturer, Mazda Motor Corporation. According to the new production mechanism, the 1800 M Pa high-tensile steel is used to construct bumper beams which form a part of the front and back bumpers and diminish the damage suffered by the vehicle during a mishap. The new and improved bumper bars have 20% more strength than the previous options and also weigh 4.8 kilograms lesser. It has also been reported that the yet-to-release Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV with the SKYACTIV 2.0-liter gasoline engine under its hood will utilize this high tensile material when it comes out next year.
Mazda’s newer models will be utilizing this new variant of steel to manufacture exceptionally safe and lightweight automobiles. The SKYACTIV Technology program initiated by Mazda to promote innovation is responsible for inventing the revolutionary body architecture. Considerable cost savings have been made in terms of car weight as a result of employing this new high tensile steel to produce automobile parts. The components can be made thin while still retaining the same toughness level as the previous, thicker parts. The body shell of the CX-5 integrates smart utilization of high tensile steel to lower weight and a better impact resistant structure. Aisin Takaoka Co Ltd and Sumitomo Metal Industries Ltd have contributed significantly in the production of the new bumper bars.
The dynamic performance and responsiveness of the automobile depends to a great extent on the weight of bumper beams added to the polar moment of inertia. Since the bumper beams are located outside of the wheelbase and far away from the center of gravity of the automobile, it is necessary to decrease the weight of the beams. They should also be sufficiently tough in order to withstand the impact during crash. Mazda engineers hope that this new development will lead them to produce better cars in the future.
Source:
http://www.4wheelsnews.com/2012-mazda-cx-5-introduces-ultra-high-tensile-steel-components/
