Finite Element Analysis and Structure Optimization for Improving the Fatigue Life of Rubber Mounts

Abstract

The fatigue crack problem of a rubber mount on the crankshaft of a wheel in an automobile was investigated by theoretical calculation and experimental analysis. A finite element analysis (FEA) model of the rubber mount was developed and analyzed using the software MSC.MARC. FEA results imply that stress concentration may arise on the interfaces of the rubber layer and metal layer. Modifications were made to the structure parameters and rubber material of the rubber mount based on the analysis of FEA results. The stress concentration of the rubber mount at the rubber and metal interfaces was improved and the fatigue life of the improved rubber mount was increased. Finally, experiments were made to validate the accuracy of the FEA process and the reliability of the improved method. The proposed FEA and improved method can shorten the product design cycle, decrease the design and trial‐product cost and remarkably improve the product quality. Keywords: rubber mountfatigue crackfinite element analysis (FEA)stress concentrationfatigue life 5 Acknowledgments We are grateful to the Ninghai Jianxin Rubber and Plastic Parts Co., Ltd., P.R. China for making the experimental studies possible by providing the MTS Elastomer Test System and components.