TFC found itself in pole position recently when asked to design and supply a vital part for motorcycle brakes at short notice.
West Performance, which manufactures high performance disc brake systems for motorcycle racing and road use under its PFM Brake System brand, called on TFC for a bespoke retaining ring.
TFC not only offers rings, springs and fasteners of precision quality, but also bespoke technical solutions to unique designs. This is exactly what was provided to PFM Brakes. The Smalley retaining ring required was used to secure the brake disc rotor onto the carrier without the need to use nuts and bolts.
This component is vital for the Isle of Man based company, which is the only one in the world to employ a system of using just one ring to hold together the two pieces which make up a brake. Setting itself apart from other brake product agents and distributors, who instead use nuts and bolts, PFM Brakes is able to offer a product ideal for motorcycle and motorsport application; it is both lightweight and quickly detachable.
The product supplied had never before been manufactured by TFC prior to Wal Saunders, Managing Director of West Performance, making the call.
TFC is renowned for its ability to produce rings and other products from non-standard sections within short lead times due to the edge coiling process it offers. This allows changes to be made to the design at any time without costly tool modifications being incurred or compromise to the final application.
Accelerating the entire process, TFC was able to provide West Performance with the unique product – from initial order to delivery – in just four weeks, in time for the Manx Grand Prix, in which the motorcycles were racing.
An active racer himself, Mr Saunders commented: "I have been so impressed with the quick reactions of TFC, its excellent service and attention to detail, that we will continue to work with the company."
TFC’s Technical Director, Brian Goode said: "At TFC we are known for our ability to meet and surpass customer needs when it comes to designing and distributing products. I am pleased we have been able to do this for Mr Saunders so that his team could perform at the Manx Grand Prix."