Vol4 num4-5 Development and characterization of a composite leaf spring, with bucking working

Abstract

For a long time, metal leaf springs have been used as elastic element, merging them with helicoidal spring for suspension applications. This type of system based on ferrous materials combined in independents plies, presents multiple problems such as interface friction, or its poor behavior in plastic state. These conditions lead to a mechanical property lost through a period of time, evoking fatige problems. Throughout this project a high strength unidirectional leaf spring based on glass fiber composite material has been developed with the purpose of solving these problems. To ensure an adequate service life, an bicomponet based material has been selected, improving its process. CRTM has been chosen for the processing of the prototypes. Finally, taking other related problems away is possible thanks to multiple CAD implementations tools. So with this as the backdrop, a one blade leaf spring under a buckling situation has been designed, solving all the existing problems found in current iron technology. Under the scope of industrial implementation and optimization, composite advantages related with flexibility and lightweight can be resourceful.