720113Development of a High Performance Torsion Bar SpringClosedGRD Development of PrototypeInnovate UKAs the need for higher speed, greater load carrying capacity transport vehicles increases, particularly in the truck & rail vehicle markets, demands on conventional suspension systems increases. At the same time vehicle manufacturers & operators wish to maintain existing vehicle suspension designs (space envelope considerations) & operating parameters (ground clearance, stiffness, service life). To enable operation of torsion & stabiliser bars at higher dynamic loads without reduction in service life, this project aims to develop a manufacturing process to explore novel strengthening & toughening techniques of a new steel grade, to target an ultrahigh ultimate tensile strength (UTS) along with sufficient toughness, fatigue strength etc. for a heavy duty torsion bar suspension spring. It is envisaged that applications could be developed realising weight & fuel savings. Due to the level of hardness of the steel, there are significant technical challenges posed in the manufacture of the suspension elements. This in turn has a commercial impact as target markets are highly price sensitive & competitive. The objective of this project is to address these technical challenges to produce a commercially viable solution. Novel structural strengthening & toughening techniques for ultra-high strength steels will be assessed by Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) & a novel heat treatment route will be developed to facilitate the manufacturing of ultra-high-strength components. Delivery of this project will provide Tinsley Bridge (TB) with a unique manufacturing capability & product that will support the UK. There is an immediate opportunity to retain in the UK major defence related contracts if the project can be completely promptly & the longer term global opportunity in multiple vehicle & rail markets.