LABA7 opens 1,000 m² facility for next-gen EMA systems

LABA7 has moved into a 1,000 m²-plus facility in Vilnius to speed development of next-generation electromagnetic actuator systems and larger test rigs. The expansion gives the R&D team dedicated space for longer builds and tests while keeping production, support and current orders running.

Why it matters: - LABA7 now has room to build electromagnetic actuator, or EMA, systems that are designed to reach higher velocities and frequencies than hydraulic rigs can match. - The larger site should speed development, reduce build interruptions and support bigger test machines for customers in motorsport, aerospace and component manufacturing. - The move also increases LABA7’s ability to hold spare parts and components in stock, which can shorten delays tied to supplier deliveries.

What happened: - LABA7 moved into a facility of more than 1,000 m² in Vilnius, Lithuania. - The new site gives the company’s R&D team its own bay and separate space from production and warehousing. - Customers will soon be able to run performance and endurance tests on new-generation EMA systems. - The company is also developing quarter-car rigs, 4-post rigs and 7-post rigs, along with a new range of general-purpose testing machines.

The details: - LABA7 said the new EMA generation keeps the control accuracy associated with EMA systems while avoiding oil, noise and higher power consumption. - Prototypes can now stay set up between runs, and long tests can continue to completion without being interrupted by shipping needs. - The company said the previous site forced R&D to share one floor with production and the warehouse, which meant prototypes often had to be moved, dismantled and rebuilt. - Some larger projects were postponed at the old site because of the lack of space. - LABA7 said the new machines are intended for shock absorber manufacturers, motorsport teams and aerospace companies. - Customers can bring their own test specimens and run them on LABA7 machines with an engineer present during the session. - The facility is about 15 minutes by taxi from Vilnius International Airport. - Customers can contact the LABA7 team to arrange a visit date. - The current product lineup includes Electromagnetic Damper Test Systems, Scotch-Yoke Shock Dynamometers, Spring Rate Testers, Automatic Vacuum Shock Bleeders, Racing Corner Weight Scales, pit and paddock equipment, and suspension setup and service tools.

Between the lines: - The expansion signals a shift from a cramped prototype shop to a dedicated R&D and manufacturing base. - LABA7 is betting that EMA systems can compete more directly with hydraulic testing equipment on speed while improving energy use and noise levels. - Keeping engineering in-house across mechanics, electronics and software gives LABA7 tighter control over design changes and product support. - The new stockroom strategy also suggests the company is trying to reduce dependence on outside suppliers for build speed.

What's next: - LABA7 plans to use the new facility to finish its next-generation EMA systems and develop larger test machines. - The company says current production continues, support contacts stay the same and orders placed before the move are unaffected. - LABA7 also says the site has room to expand further as demand grows. - The company is now accepting customer visits for on-site testing sessions by appointment.

The bottom line: - LABA7’s new Vilnius facility gives the company the space to scale product development without disrupting current operations.