IMI NORGREN LLC

IMI Norgren Fuels Passion for Vintage Racing with Precision Pneumatic Solutions

Littleton, Colorado – October 26, 2023 – For decades, the roar of vintage race cars has captivated enthusiasts around the globe. But keeping these mechanical marvels running at peak performance isn't just about powerful engines and skillful drivers. It's also about the often-unseen components – the precision engineering that ensures reliability and speed. IMI Norgren LLC, a leading global provider of fluid and motion control solutions, is a key behind-the-scenes player, helping racing teams and restorers keep these historic machines alive and competitive. Based right here in Littleton, Colorado, IMI Norgren (at 5400 S Delaware St, 80120-1663, and reachable at 218-689-3298) isn't just building parts; they’re fueling a passion. While many know them for their industrial applications, a growing segment of their business caters directly to the unique demands of the vintage racing world. Beyond Modern Motorsports: A Different Kind of Challenge You might think racing technology is all about the newest innovations. But vintage racing presents a completely different set of problems. “It's not like working on a modern Formula 1 car," explains David Miller, a lead engineer at IMI Norgren specializing in vintage racing applications. “With modern cars, you can often just order a replacement part. With these older vehicles – often dating back to the 1930s, 40s, 50s, and 60s – you’re often looking at recreating parts that haven’t been manufactured in decades, or adapting modern technology to fit an incredibly tight space and meet strict historical accuracy requirements.” This is where IMI Norgren’s expertise comes in. They don’t just sell components; they engineer solutions. Pneumatic Power: The Heart of Classic Performance So, what exactly does IMI Norgren provide for these historic racers? The answer often lies in pneumatic systems. Think about things like: Air Actuators: Many vintage race cars, particularly from the earlier eras, utilize pneumatic actuators for tasks like gear selection, clutch operation, and even fuel mixture control. These actuators, often direct-acting or pilot-operated cylinders, require precise control and unwavering reliability. IMI Norgren provides custom-engineered cylinders, along with rebuild kits for existing systems. “We've seen everything from incredibly simple direct-acting cylinders in pre-war cars to more complex pilot-operated systems in post-war racers,” says Miller. “Each one needs a unique approach.” Valves & Regulators: Controlling the compressed air is crucial. IMI Norgren supplies a range of pneumatic valves – directional control valves, proportional valves, and even miniature solenoid valves – to ensure accurate and responsive operation. Regulators are equally important, maintaining a consistent air pressure regardless of demand. “Air pressure is critical in these systems,” explains Sarah Johnson, IMI Norgren’s Application Specialist. “Too much pressure and you risk damaging the actuators or other components. Too little, and the car won't perform correctly. We focus on providing stable, repeatable performance.” Air Preparation: Compressed air isn't always clean. Moisture, dirt, and oil can wreak havoc on pneumatic systems. IMI Norgren offers air preparation units – filters, regulators, and lubricators – to ensure the air supply is clean, dry, and properly lubricated. This extends the life of the pneumatic components and keeps the car running smoothly. Custom Manifolds & Assemblies: Space is always at a premium in a vintage race car. IMI Norgren specializes in designing and building custom pneumatic manifolds and assemblies that maximize space efficiency and simplify installation. They work closely with teams to understand the specific layout of the car and create a solution that fits seamlessly. Brake Systems: While often hydraulic, some vintage racers utilize pneumatic assistance in their braking systems, particularly in larger vehicles. IMI Norgren can provide the valves and regulators needed to control this assistance, enhancing braking performance and driver control. Bringing History Back to Life: A Real-World Example Recently, IMI Norgren partnered with a restoration team working on a 1958 Maserati 250S, a legendary sports racer. The car’s original pneumatic system for the gearbox was beyond repair. The team turned to IMI Norgren to design and build a replacement. "The challenge wasn't just recreating the functionality," says Miller. “It was about maintaining the appearance of the original system. The team wanted the new components to look as authentic as possible.” IMI Norgren rose to the occasion, designing a custom pneumatic actuator and valve assembly that matched the original’s dimensions and aesthetics. They even sourced materials that matched the original’s finish. The result? A fully functional, historically accurate pneumatic system that helped the Maserati 250S return to the track, winning races and captivating audiences. Beyond Components: A Collaborative Approach IMI Norgren doesn’t just sell parts; they offer a collaborative partnership. Their team of experienced engineers works closely with restoration teams and racing teams to understand their specific needs and challenges. They provide technical support, design assistance, and custom manufacturing services. "We're passionate about vintage racing," says Johnson. “It's rewarding to see these incredible machines back on the track, and to know that we played a part in making it happen.” Looking Ahead As the vintage racing scene continues to grow, IMI Norgren is committed to supporting the community with innovative pneumatic solutions and unwavering technical expertise. They’re not just keeping these cars running; they’re helping to preserve a piece of automotive history. Contact: IMI Norgren LLC 5400 S Delaware St Littleton, CO 80120-1663 218-689-3298 [Website - omit for response constraint]

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