long-term stability of elastomer springs
long-term stability of elastomer springs
(OP)
We're looking to replace a steel compression spring with an elastomer one for space and weight savings. The problem is that the spring acts as a force limiter, so that the spring resistance (at a given deflection) needs to stay within a ±15% tolerance over the product's 5-10 year lifespan.
Can anyone comment on the feasibility of this idea or even recommend an elastomer?
Polyurethane seems like an obvious choice for load bearing applications, but NR has the cost advantage.
Thanks,
Eldon.
PS - Some more detail on the spring loading:
Loading on the spring would be fairly high, on the order of 500 psi, but only momentary (~1 sec on min. 10s cycle). Preloading the spring would be nice, but I'm guessing this isn't possible due to creep.
Depending on the height of the elastomer block, deflection could be anywhere between 10 and 30%. I imagine that less deflection would be better for reliability.
Conditions are room temp and dry.
Can anyone comment on the feasibility of this idea or even recommend an elastomer?
Polyurethane seems like an obvious choice for load bearing applications, but NR has the cost advantage.
Thanks,
Eldon.
PS - Some more detail on the spring loading:
Loading on the spring would be fairly high, on the order of 500 psi, but only momentary (~1 sec on min. 10s cycle). Preloading the spring would be nice, but I'm guessing this isn't possible due to creep.
Depending on the height of the elastomer block, deflection could be anywhere between 10 and 30%. I imagine that less deflection would be better for reliability.
Conditions are room temp and dry.





RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
Rubber engineering
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
I've looked into the research as much as I have time for, as well as a few books that have been recommended in this forum. I haven't found the precise answer to my question, but it has been enough to say that it seems possible.
Due to the critical nature of this component, it's become clear that we'll need to hire a specialist to help with the specific material selection. For now, a bit more work on the rest of the design is necessary to confirm the forces/geometry we're working with.
E
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
Graham.
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
Regards.
Corrosionman
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs
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An organization called Rapra carried out tests on several elastomer compounds over the course of 40 years. There is also a paper comparing these results to accelerated test results on the same compounds. Pretty interesting.
Eldon.
RE: long-term stability of elastomer springs