Firestone Industrial Products has unveiled its next-generation of air spring technologies, including lighter-weight components and the Airide Integrative Air-Damping System.
“Firestone Industrial Products has a proven track record in manufacturing quality air springs that improve driver comfort, protect cargo and provide miles of trouble-free service,” says John Vincent, president at Firestone Industrial Products. “Through new product innovations and a solid global presence, we look forward to bringing the benefits of air spring technology to the heavy-duty trucking industry for many years to come.”
Firestone says its most recent innovation, the Airide Integrative Air-Damping System, offers an effective, light-weight alternative to cab mount suspension applications, providing the functionality of an air spring and shock absorber in a single part. The system is comprised of an exterior bellow made of natural rubber that encompasses a proprietary, shock-absorbing module. Firestone says preliminary testing indicates a notable reduction in the transmission and frequency of vibration when compared to traditional air spring/shock absorber or air spring/hydraulic damper configurations.
“The Airide Integrative Air-Damping System has the potential for an unprecedented level of comfort that significantly reduces driver fatigue,” adds Vincent. “Also, since the system reduces vibration inputs in the cab structure, there is less strenuous wear-and-tear on cab mounting points, ensuring long-lasting, dependable performance.
