Tenneco Launches Monotube Shock Absorber

Tenneco Automotive has launched a new monotube shock absorber which features a Monotube Blow Off (MTBO) valve at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany (IAA) last week. The new Ford Focus ST, which will be introduced in Europe later this year, will include shocks featuring the new MTBO valve.

Monotube shock absorbers are single tube high-pressure gas shocks, which are said to offer enhanced vehicle stability and handling with design features that provide more mounting options and higher damping levels compared with similar twin tube shocks. With the MTBO valve, low damping forces can be independently tuned in rebound and compression modes.

The system also independently adjusts damping blow-off levels and damping progression rates in mid- to high-speed ranges. The MTBO valve differs from standard monotube valve designs where damping force level and progression rate are mutually dependent.

“The new MTBO valve system demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving existing technologies to reduce the compromise between ride comfort and handling,” said Mark P. Frissora, chairman and CEO, Tenneco Automotive. “The addition of the MTBO valve to our advanced suspension technologies portfolio demonstrates the extent to which Tenneco Automotive is committed to developing value-added solutions that directly influence consumer choice.”

The company is said to be discussing the application of this technology with other OEMs.