Wet Braking
Brake Hydraulics DevelopmentsAs both an original equipment and aftermarket manufacturer, research and development are fundamental aspects of LPR’s culture. Every year, the company invests between 3–5% of its turnover into research and development, helping to develop their OE credentials and keeping its aftermarket range in line with developments at OE level. A key area of development for LPR is its range of brake hydraulics. Brake Master Cylinder (BMC) developments At OE level vehicle designers have been working to reduce the size of BMCs, while improving performance and physical qualities. These new compact BMCs provide a number of advantages over conventional types including: • Length reduction of up to 20% – the trend for engine downsizing means that space for components is at a premium in new vehicles, compact BMCs help vehicle manufacturers to save space under the bonnet and are easier to install • Weight reduction of up to 25% – helps to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption • Fixed lipseals – by fixing lipseals within the cylinder, a high flow rate can be achieved at lower temperatures, meeting the requirements of vehicles with ESP systems • Standardising the design of the internal components has reduced the number of internal components by up to 48.5%, allowing the use of fewer components for a wider range of BMCs • Improved lifetime – design features such as fixed lipseals ensure a longer lifetime as the seals do not move and are less susceptible to wear or damage Total quality with total control
Developments such as these provide the aftermarket with the highest quality products, utilising the latest technologies, at the most competitive prices. As new vehicles increasingly use these technologies, factors and garage owners will be well placed to continue to meet the service demands within the braking market. |
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In order to develop new components, improve performance and test production parts before release, LPR has its own laboratories where rigorous tests are carried out. This process begins with the production and testing of a prototype. Tests include raw material analysis and performance test against OE parts. Only once the prototype is approved does production begin. Further tests are carried out during the production and assembly process and the first unit to come off the assembly line is checked to make sure that all critical dimensions are within tolerances.