Research on the Influence of the Mounting Configuration on the Elastic Characteristics and Energy Dissipation Capacity of Multi-Leaf Springs for Truck Vehicles

This paper presents selected results of experimental tests on multi-leaf springs used in the dependent suspensions of trucks. The main objective of this research was to determine the dissipation energy in the actual spring structure for various methods of mounting the spring in the vehicle supporting system, with quasi-static vertical loading. Two basic methods of spring cooperation in a dependent suspension were tested: a free spring and a spring with a hanger. The experimental test conditions took into account different loading (unloading) speeds and changes in the angle of the hanger in relation to the frame and changes in its length. Based on the results of experimental tests, the elastic characteristics of springs with a hysteresis loop were developed. Load energy and dispersion values were calculated from the curves using the numerical integration method. The test results are presented in the form of elastic characteristics of springs with a hysteresis loop and comparative diagrams of load and dissipation energy. The original aspects of this work include the design, the construction of the stand and the methodology of experimental tests of the multi-leaf springs together with a comparative analysis of the test results and conclusions.