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Dana Applies Magnetic-Pulse Welding To Hydroformed Frame

21 October 1999

Dana Applies Magnetic-Pulse Welding To Hydroformed Frame To Reduce Weight, Increase Design Flexibility

    TOLEDO, Ohio, Oct. 20 -- After recently unveiling magnetic-
pulse welding as a new process for joining steel and aluminum on driveshafts,
and winning the Automotive Manufacturing Award at the Frankfurt International
Motorshow, Dana Corporation is using the same technology to take
frames and other structural products to the next level.
    Magnetic-pulse welding is a process that joins ferrous and non-ferrous
materials, such as steel and aluminum.  Through this proprietary, electronic
process, Dana can produce a smooth-weld bond that, which outperforms
conventional welding, with no heat.  Combining magnetic-pulse welding with
new advancements in high-pressure hydroforming of steel and aluminum is
enabling the company to develop innovative designs, while continuing to
reduce the weight of its structures.
    Using this technology for structures following its introduction in
driveshafts is consistent with Dana's strategy of sharing "enabling
technologies" among product groups.  Dana's Structural Products Group is now
using magnetic-pulse welding along with its innovative hydroforming
processes to enhance its structural technology.  In fact, Dana can hydroform
unique aluminum crossmembers, thus reducing manufacturing costs and use
magnetic-pulse welding to join the cradles to steel siderails, all with a
new level of precision.  The result is more design flexibility, with less
weight.
    "These technological developments significantly reduce the cost and mass
of current technologies and give our customers a tremendous advantage in the
development of products such as space frames," said Mike Greene, vice
president of structural products.
    Dana Automotive Systems Group provides under-the-vehicle products,
integrated modules and systems to customers anywhere in the world.  Automotive
Systems Group consists of Spicer(R) axle products, Spicer(R) driveshaft
products, Parish(R) structural products, Nakata(R) steering and suspension,
FTE(R) brake and clutch systems, and a systems engineering integration and
logistics unit.
    Dana Corporation is one of the world's largest independent suppliers to
vehicle manufacturers and the aftermarket.  Founded in 1904 and based in
Toledo, Ohio, the company operates some 330 major facilities in 32 countries
and employs more than 86,000 people.  The company reported sales of
$12.5 billion in 1998.  Dana's Internet address is http://www.dana.com .