Title: On the role of non-linearity in the dynamic behaviour of rubber components

Authors: J. Harris, A. Stevenson

Addresses: MRPRA, Brickendonbury, Henford, SG13 8NL, UK. ' MRPRA, Brickendonbury, Henford, SG13 8NL, UK

Abstract: Rubber components are frequently used in automotive application as isolators, bushes, mounts or springs, usually bonded to steel end pieces and usually where very specific dynamic behaviour is required for anti-vibration purposes. The force/deflection behaviour of rubber is in general non-linear. Design of rubber engineering components conventionally seeks to suppress or avoid the effects of non-linearity over the operating range of the component. Alternatively, if the consequences of non-linearity for dynamic behaviour are understood well enough, then it is possible to exploit its effects in novel ways to enhance the performance of rubber components. In this paper the basic features of the dynamic mechanical properties of rubber are discussed together with consideration of the way they may be influenced by non-linear force/deflection behaviour. The advantages that may be gained from non-linearity are illustrated by the performance of a recently developed automotive suspension system.

Keywords: bushes; dynamic behaviour; isolators; mounts; rubber components; automotive components; springs; suspension systems; vehicle vibration; vehicle design.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1987.061218

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1987 Vol.8 No.4/5/6, pp.553 - 577

Published online: 25 May 2014 *

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