McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
(OP)
Hello All,
I have a few queries regarding McPherson strut type suspension systems and loads in members, in particular, the lower control arm. I would like some clarification as to the loads being experienced by the lower control arm, in particular bending loads.
(I can see tension and compression, but have also been told there will be bending present)
If anyone can provide an insight into the loads being experienced and their magnitudes, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
I have a few queries regarding McPherson strut type suspension systems and loads in members, in particular, the lower control arm. I would like some clarification as to the loads being experienced by the lower control arm, in particular bending loads.
(I can see tension and compression, but have also been told there will be bending present)
If anyone can provide an insight into the loads being experienced and their magnitudes, it would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.





RE: McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
Bending from lateral forces due to the neutral fiber(s) of the LCA not remaining in the plane defined by the ball joint and control arm chassis-side pivot points?
Norm
RE: McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
All will be revealed by a free body diagram for each loadcase.
Cheers
Greg Locock
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RE: McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
RE: McPherson Strut Suspension - Loads In Members
As a first pass, draw a free body diagram (as suggested) for each link as a complete system, assuming zero friction at all of the joints, with the loads due to braking, cornering, bump etc applied at the contact patch. Apply 1g braking, 1g cornering etc. Using the principle of superposition, you can calculate the effects of load combinations for real g levels for each attachment and each member. Careful with your sign convention!
Then, add reasonable estimates of friction for each joint, applied as torques at each end of each member as appropriate, and see those forces change!