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SARDOU SAS has developed highly stressed composites parts for 35 years. SARDOU SAS and QUALITY INDUSTRIAL PRODUCT invented composite coils springs in 2002. Developing composite coils springs, we have faced a big challenge, how to increase the short life expectancy of this highly stressed structure? We have identified that the weak point, in composite coils springs, is its epoxy matrix. In fact, during heavy loading, the matrix undergoes micro cracks. Then, during fatigue, micro cracks propagate and merge, transforming the matrix into a fine powder. The composite coil suspension springs, using, classic epoxy, where ruined after only 100,000 cycles in the best cases. The fact to integrate “functionalized silica aggregates”, in the matrix, enable the springs to exceed 1,000,000 cycles, with the same spring design. In addition, the spring stiffness has increased by 6% and the thermal set has reduced by 1.6%.

SARDOU SAS has invented in 1992 composite “C” springs (patented in 1993), these springs where offering a high energy density of 1350 joules per kilogram (compared to 300 for steel springs). This huge energy density means a potential 78% weight savings! But in the last century, weight saving was less important and platform managers were reluctant to use anything other than coil springs. So, in 2002, in order to comply with their wishes, SARDOU SAS invented composite coils springs. Easy to fit in standard suspensions, Composite coils springs are the optimum choice for McPherson-strut suspensions. As weight saving is now mandatory, composite springs, are the best choice for automotive suspensions, offering a 50% weight saving compared to steel. A Joint Venture, between SARDOU and SOGEFI Suspensions SA called S.ARA, was created in 2008 in order to mass produce composite coils springs; the official Start Of Production happen in 2014 for AUDI.