Decisions Take Time - Exactly 418 Hours !

In cooperation with the Technical University of Esslingen, a total of 9 products from 6 different manufacturers were subjected to quality testing in December of 2002 in the form of a salt spray durability test in accordance with DIN 50021 SS. The object of this testing was to compare corrosion resistance of the various systems under consideration of environmental influences such as salt water. During the test simulation of over 418 hours, the samples were inspected at regular intervals, whereby the corrosion resistance of piston rods and threaded struts were evaluated, as well as the adjustability of the aluminum spring collars.

Participants/Products:
KW „Inox-line“ Coilovers Variant 1, 2 and 3
KW Coilover struts Variant 2
5 competitor products with new, galvanized threaded struts

Evaluation:
2x very good KW „inox-line“ Variant 1 and Variant 3
1x good KW „inox-line“ Variant 2 
2x moderately good competitor
2x moderate competitor
2x poor competitor

Test Result FH Esslingen:
KW inox-line coilovers with stainless steel technology are clearly superior to galvanized models with regard to corrosion resistance, and in addition, ensure smooth operation even after 418 hours.

Conclusion:
(Klaus Wohlfarth, Managing Director of KW automotive)
„These clear results have strengthened our resolve to concentrate on the quality of the product in the interest of our customers. In the future we will only offer KW Coilover suspension systems constructed in inox-line stainless steel technology.“

Galvanized Coilover Suspension		KW Inox-Line
	After only 26 hours, first signs of pitting and rust		inox-line, Variant 3 piston rods in flawless condition
	After only 145 hours, first signs of rust Corrosion at fissures and welding seams		inox-line, Variant 1, No visible corrosion on strut Easy to move, no rust
	Isolated rust spots after only 46 hours After 229 hours, no longer moveable		inox-line, Variant 2 Easy to move, no rust