Swagelok Northern California Is Going for a Ride with SuperSonic Car

Bloodhound's tail fin will sport names of all Swagelok Northern California associates

We thought we'd post a progress report on the supersonic car we first mentioned back in February. The British-designed Bloodhound is destined to become the world's fastest car when it takes to the road later this year and in 2016, attempting a new land speed record of 1,000 mph.

Swagelok fittings, hoses, pressure regulators and valves will help driver Andy Green get up to speed quickly and stop safely. As the holder of the current record of 736 mph, the Royal Air Force wing commander is ideally suited for the job.

So far this year the project has almost reached the end of the component design phase. Several key parts have already been fitted, including the titanium nose cone. Green’s seat has arrived and been trial fitted into the car. (The last thing he needs to worry about is an uncomfortable seat when the car's rockets and jet engine fire up.)

Group participation

One of the most prominent features, the car's tall tail fin, has been riveted together. The tail fin will get some extra decoration when it comes time for final assembly. The names of every Swagelok Northern California associate will be written on the fin. So in our own small way, we'll be on board for the historic event.

Swagelok Northern California made a donation on behalf of each associate in support of the Bloodhound team's quest to break the land speed record. In return, the team in Bristol has been kind enough to provide a certificate to each associate, signed by Green and project director Richard Noble. You, too, can support and be a part of the adventure to 1000 mph. If you would like to contribute to the quest, here is a link to the Bloodhound SuperSonic Car's donation page.

We can't guarantee that our names will help the car go any faster, but thinking about our contribution sure gets our hearts racing.

In the video below, you can see how Swagelok products and associates are supporting the Bloodhound team leading up to test runs in 2015 and the record attempt in 2016. You may not be trying to break the land speed record, but that does not mean your fluid systems are any less important to you or us.

Let us know how we can provide support to your applications. We are here to help.

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