Finite element analysis of a FeC, Cr-V and Al 7075-T6 leaf springs for light vehicle suspension system

Abstract

This study has become very necessary because of the current condition of the roads in our country. The study is conducted to come out with an alternative best, cheapest, and available material for the design of leaf springs to prevent or reduce vehicle breakdown due to the breaking of the leaf spring on roads. Weight reduction is one of the main focuses of automobile manufacturers in this modern era. The objective of this study is to model and analyze a leaf spring for a light vehicle suspension system with Plain Carbon Steel (FeC), Chromium Vanadium steel (Cr-V), and Aluminum 7075-T6 as the implementing material using Finite Element Method (FEM). Aluminum 7075-T6 is very strong, and durable and will help in weight reduction since the axle leaf spring arrangement also adds weight to the vehicle. The study showed that, when the applied load of 3359.94 N was induced on the aluminum 7075-T6 leaf spring, the result was superior compared to the other materials with the same loading condition. The aluminum 7075-T6 leaf spring was observed to withstand deformation, strain, and stress better due to its superior properties. The study concluded that Aluminum 7075-T6 material should be adopted for manufacturing leaf springs and similar automobile components since it is light, strong, and can withstand greater forces.