Metaldyne to Supply Damper Isolation Pulleys for Asian Automaker

PLYMOUTH, Mich., Dec. 13, 2006 -- Metaldyne announced today it has been awarded a contract from an Asian automaker to supply damper isolation pulleys. The program, valued at approximately $12 million annually, will launch in 2008 to produce damper isolation pulleys for diesel engines that power passenger cars and SUVs.

Metaldyne's unique damper isolation pulley reduces cost, weight and complexity, while improving noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics for a quieter ride. Designed as a modular system to meet the customer's needs, it consists of an isolation pulley (a belt pulley driven by a rubber coupling) and single mass damper (for manual transmissions). When combined with an automatic transmission, a second damper is applied to the module to provide necessary durability and NVH benefits.

Unlike current isolation pulleys that use natural rubber, Metaldyne uses an Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber compound to increase durability, absorption of vibration, and resistance to higher temperatures. Through proper configuration and selection of rubber components, Metaldyne's patented damper reduces both torsional and bending vibrations with a single inertial mass. By integrating the isolation pulley with a damper, Metaldyne helps the customer meet future emission requirements.

"This contract strengthens our global presence as the leading supplier of innovative isolation pulleys and dampers," said Tom Chambers, president and chief operating officer. "The combination of these two technologies addresses the common durability and NVH issues, resulting in a benchmark engine for our customer."

About Metaldyne

Metaldyne is a leading global designer and supplier of metal-based components, assemblies and modules for transportation-related power train and chassis applications including engine, transmission/transfer case, wheel-end and suspension, axle and driveline, and noise and vibration control products to the motor vehicle industry.

Headquartered in Plymouth, Mich., Metaldyne has annual revenues of approximately $2 billion. The company employs more than 6,500 employees at 38 facilities in 14 countries.