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Reverse Engineering is Where MOOG® Quality Starts

Creating Premium Parts

Premium steering and suspension parts just don’t happen by accident. At MOOG®, the creation of a part is an intentional process that begins with MOOG engineers listening to customer concerns about an existing OE part that’s being used in the field. However, before a new part can be created by the MOOG team, there is an important step that must be taken to ensure the success of any new product offering – reverse engineering the original product.

Once a part that has potential to be redesigned has been identified, the MOOG team gets to work on reverse engineering the product to learn all it can about the part. This detailed analysis helps guide the design of a new MOOG part to address the concerns with the OE part.

What is Reverse Engineering?

Used in many industries, reverse engineering involves deconstructing a part to determine how it was designed. Particularly helpful in the creation of aftermarket auto parts, reverse engineering is a critical first step in the process. The goal of reverse engineering is to have a thorough understanding of how the part works by examining it layer by layer. Key information about the design, materials used and manufacturing methods of the part can be ascertained through this reverse engineering process.

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Scanning Control Arm for Reverse Engineering

Reverse Engineering for Success

The MOOG reverse engineering process begins in the service bay. MOOG technicians analyze the OE part on the vehicle and try to replicate what the customer is seeing. Understanding exactly how the part performs on the vehicle is an important first step on the road to improving the part. Whether it’s an issue with the design of the product, a problem with installation, or poor overall performance of the part, identifying all of the pain points is necessary for improvement.

Another important step in the discovery process is determining the chemistry and geometry of the part. Using a specialized piece of equipment called an optical emission spectrometer, MOOG engineers perform a spectral analysis of the part to determine the chemistry of materials used. To learn more about the geometry and design of the part, engineers use a 3D scanner to digitize the physical part and make a 3D model.

Next, engineers move to the lab where the part is thoroughly tested to gain further insights. Using specialized equipment, the part is tested for ultimate strength, which is the peak strength that a part can withstand before failure. Evaluating the ultimate strength of a part is critical in understanding how a part performs. Tests like a stud pull-out test and stud impact test give MOOG engineers valuable information.

From Reverse Engineering to Premium Parts

Armed with the information collected during the reverse engineering process, MOOG engineers have a thorough understanding of the design, materials and application of the OE part. Using this knowledge, the MOOG team goes about designing a new part that meets or exceeds the original part’s specifications. These improvements could be in the materials, heat treat, design, or features that improve the performance or installation. This is the core of MOOG’s problem-solving spirit that has earned it the reputation as “The Problem Solver®.”

These problem-solving innovations result in MOOG steering and suspension parts that are designed, tested and manufactured for easy installation and long-lasting performance. And this all starts with the reverse engineering process that ensures MOOG parts are made with the right materials and geometry so fit and function is optimized. MOOG means excellence and excellence never quits.

MOOG Steering and Suspension Parts Collage

Learn more about premium steering and suspension parts, find your car part, or find where to buy your auto part today.

The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.

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