Released: May 10th, 2006
Meridian Technologies Inc., the global leader in design, engineering and manufacturing of magnesium high pressure die cast, machined and assembled automotive components is proud to announce that it has won the 2006 IMA Application Award of Excellence for its Corvette Z06 Engine Cradle. This category, which recognizes significant advances resulting in large volume potential magnesium, is judged by a peer review panel of international experts.
This component, the result of a multi year study by the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) and the United States Automotive Materials Partnership (USAMP) along with contributions from General Motors, Ford, DaimlerChrysler and several other institutions, is the industry’s first structural magnesium chassis component. This innovation is a major chassis component and an integral part of the vehicle crash management system that demonstrates that magnesium chassis components can be made from the high pressure die cast process.
Additional benefits to this magnesium cradle include a 35% weight savings versus the original aluminum design, the single piece component integration replaces large multi piece assemblies, and the high ductility, high temperature alloy developed by Hydro Magnesium provides a 50/50 front to rear weight distribution for the vehicle.
“This industry-first usage of magnesium in a front cradle marks a tremendously significant development in the important industry movement to implement material strategies that can both reduce weight and improve vehicle performance,” notes Kris Pfaehler, Meridian Technologies’ Vice President, Business Development & Marketing.
This award winning component will be prominently displayed during the 63rd Annual World Magnesium Conference taking place in Beijing, China May 21-24th, 2006. All winners of this award are recognized worldwide as outstanding examples of magnesium’s use and receive extensive publicity within the IMA and metals industry.
Meridian Technologies continues to be a technology leader in the development of new magnesium applications to further reduce vehicle weight and increase fuel economy, handling and performance. With 6 manufacturing facilities in 5 countries, and its Global Technology Center located in Strathroy, Ontario, Meridian is the only magnesium die caster with global manufacturing, engineering and business development operations. With over 1200 employees worldwide, Meridian is the global market share leader with a diversified product range of Instrument Panel Beams, 4WD Transfer Cases, Transmission Cases, Front End Carriers, Radiator Supports, Seat Frames, Steering Column Supports, Engine Cradles, and other body structure, chassis, and powertrain components.
For more information on the IMA’s 63rd Annual World Magnesium Conference, please visit www.intlmag.org