Automotive suspension materials type query
Automotive suspension materials type query
(OP)
Hi,
I've posted this in the automotive section but I think it's more of a materials query so have posted here too.
My suspension uses two link shafts to transfer the movement from the control arm to the shock absorber via a cam link.I am looking to manufacture some of these link shafts and was debating the best material to use. I assume the main loads are going to be bending loads and to this end I was thinking something along the lines of rolled 4130 bar. I'm pretty sure the OEM manufacturer won't tell me what they use so would be interested in anyone's feedback.
I've attached a basic diagram of the arrangement. Two round shafts that taper to locate with a threaded end to lock in place.
Many thanksJohn
I've posted this in the automotive section but I think it's more of a materials query so have posted here too.
My suspension uses two link shafts to transfer the movement from the control arm to the shock absorber via a cam link.I am looking to manufacture some of these link shafts and was debating the best material to use. I assume the main loads are going to be bending loads and to this end I was thinking something along the lines of rolled 4130 bar. I'm pretty sure the OEM manufacturer won't tell me what they use so would be interested in anyone's feedback.
I've attached a basic diagram of the arrangement. Two round shafts that taper to locate with a threaded end to lock in place.
Many thanksJohn





RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
Thanks
John
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
Chemical composition and a hardness check will essentially tell you the material and heat treatment. An independent met lab will charge about $200 to perform these two tests on one piece.
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
To this end I may now actually retain the exisiting shafts, of a known strength, and work on making the housings servicable.
It may be the easiest course of action as opposed to a complete re-design.
John
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
Besides the material composition and hardness checks recommended above, you should also carefully evaluate the metal's grain structure, any indication of surface working (such as fillet rolling or shot peening), as well as the type of fit (such as press fits) between any mating parts.
Most people don't appreciate just how highly engineered production automotive parts really are. The OEM's spend lots of time figuring out how to get the most performance from the lowest cost materials. They know lots of tricks to maximize fatigue life, and some of what they do to the part/material may not be readily apparent.
Good luck.
Terry
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
When I looked at the jpg I thought the "shafts" are subjected to bending
RE: Automotive suspension materials type query
Many thanks for all the info.
I have now decided I am going to try to replace the bearing materials that the shafts run on as opposed to replacing the shafts themselves as it may be a wholly easier proposition.
If I do decide to replace them ill certainly send them off for analysis and mechanical testing.
Regards
John