To support increasing customer demand for its high-performing solenoid valves and assembled manifolds, Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has doubled manufacturing capabilities of the components through production line expansion and improvement at its Acuña, Mexico, manufacturing campus.
With a $1.5 million investment over 2015 and 2016, Bendix added a new low-flow solenoid production line and a new manifold line to its high-tech assembly facilities, increasing capacity as well as offering custom ordering and just-in-time delivery.
In 2015, production of the Bendix SMS-9700 Accessory Solenoid Valve and the Bendix FCS-9700 Fan Clutch Solenoid Valve – both manufactured in Acuña – surpassed 1 million units, just three years after their introduction.
Today’s commercial vehicle air systems are busier than ever, helping operate everything from brakes to air bag transfer systems to automated manual transmissions, and high-performing solenoid valves and assembled manifolds are crucial to keeping the air system simplified.
“Modern solenoids are capable of managing more than a dozen pneumatic accessories. We’re talking fifth wheel slide locks, lift axles, air horns and wheel differential locks, in addition to others,” said Rebecca Carter, Bendix product manager – specialty valves. “Fleets and original equipment manufacturers are looking to Bendix for custom, advanced, low-flow solenoid solutions to meet a practically limitless range of vehicle needs, and these new lines in Acuña enable us to meet a growing demand with increased flexibility.”
