Heidi Rutz is the new director of research and development for the Affinia Global Brake and Chassis Group. She will be responsible for disc brake pads, brake shoes and heavy-duty brake block friction formulation and development activities.
In addition, Rutz will be the chief steward of the “Best In Brakes” friction product portfolio for Raybestos brakes.
Initially, Rutz will:
* focus on formula and process improvements for the heavy-duty commercial brake block products sold under the Affinia Brake Pro brand.
* analyze the process for releasing new formulas for production.
* work with the R&D team to make sure the company meets recent legislation requirements for low-copper and no-copper friction formulations.
“Heidi brings extensive knowledge and expertise to our development team, with experience in all forms of friction formulation, raw material sourcing and manufacturing and process control,” says Terry Heffelfinger, director of product engineering, R&D and quality.
Prior to joining Affinia, Rutz held product development positions at Haldex Brake Products (as director of friction materials, research and development) and at Fras-le S.A. (as development and quality manager). In addition, she spent nearly 10 years with Echlin Inc. in various development roles.
Affinia’s Global Brake & Chassis Group is a subsidiary of Affinia Group Inc. For more information on Raybestos brake products, visit www.raybestos.com.
