Conception of a Durability Prediction Method for a Metal-elastomer Machine Mount

Abstract

Elastic elements utilised in the support systems of machines are subjects to deterioration processes dependent on the character of their operational loads, work environment and construction. The extent of this change and work time after which it occurs is important information in the maintenance process, necessary for its planning. This paper presents the developed concept of durability prediction method of a four-joint metal-elastomer machine support based on the variation of working temperature of its elastomer elements. Therefore, the solution enables the estimation of significant indexes determining the life cycle of the mount. The developed simulation model is a useful tool for designers, allowing them to estimate the time of the machine mount's correct work. It also helps the operator to schedule the inspections of technical condition (degree of wear) of the machine mount and prepare its replacement operations accordingly. This problem is significant because any failure to an element usually generates higher costs than carrying out a scheduled preventive replacement.

Analysis of the Modernised Railway Vehicle Component with Regard to Reliability and Operational Safety

“…The problem is particularly related to pivots made using the casting technique, which are prone to brittle fracture. As it is impossible in practice to manufacture a rubber element for the damper with a lifespan close to that of the pivot [8,9,10,13], hence, in order to ensure the reliability and operational safety of the system, the damper can be preventively replaced, thus avoiding the change in operating conditions of the pivot and its damage. An assessment of the reliability of the system operated in this way and the effect of damper damage on the reliability of the system, as well as an evaluation of the effects of preventive damper renewal, is possible using a simulation experiment [23,24,25].…”

“…The low durability of this element affects the reliability of the pivot function. One possible solution to the problem is to develop a replacement strategy for the rubber damper element correlated with the reliability of the pivot and the entire system [11,12,13].…”