Page 180 - BWM March 2013

180 | Business World Magazine | March 2013
and Technology) begins a lecture detailing
distinctions in the metallurgical modalities
among spring varieties categorized in terms
of torsion, extension or compression dynam-
ics. While not really as confusing as it may
sound, there is somewhat more comprehen-
sible truth in Check’s assertion, “It’s not just
bent wire.”
To appreciate the depth of that comment
requires his further explanation as to how
products have to be engineered with stan-
dards of precision customized for the appli-
cation. For example, the engine valve springs
they manufacture for the automobile indus-
try is very different from that manufactured
for vehicles in the racing industry. Check
says drag racers require valve springs that
can withstand bursts from “a hell of a lot of
force” for a short duration. On other racing
circuits, those valve springs have to be cus-
tomized for endurance, allowing the driver
to complete 500 miles on a round track. The
properties are different, but in either case,
should the valve spring malfunction caus-
ing the valve to drop, the engine is thereby
ruined, corporate sponsors are miffed, and
thousands of fans are left dismayed that their
favorite driver failed to claim the checkered
flag. All for the want of a quality valve spring.
It would also be disappointing to jump on a