Experimental Vibration Analysis of a GFRP Mono-Composite Leaf Spring for Automotive Suspension Applications: Stiffness, Natural Frequency, and Transmissibility Evaluation
Abstract
In the automotive sector, the demand for composite materials within suspension systems increases day by day, as it has an advantageous combination of stiffness and low density, superior damping characteristics, and enhanced resistance to both corrosion and fatigue. This study investigates the vibrational characteristics of a mono composite leaf spring made by using Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP), which is the best substitute for a conventional steel leaf spring in light-duty commercial vehicles. The GFRP mono composite leaf spring, consisting optimum volume of a 60% E-glass fiber and a 40% epoxy matrix, and it was fabricated using the hand lay-up process. After that, it underwent experimental testing to determine its static Stiffness, natural frequency, and also the transmissibility. Assessment of static Stiffness was done by employing a Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Furthermore, a natural frequency characteristic was analysed by utilizing a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analyser, and to determine the transmissibility, a bespoke harmonic excitation system incorporating a cam–follower mechanism was utilized. The investigation reveals that the GFRP mono composite leaf spring exhibits a rigidity that is 44.14% superior, a mass reduction is 57.93%, and a natural frequency that is 49.91% elevated if compared to the steel leaf spring. Transmissibility at various frequencies indicated a substantial attenuation in transmitted vibration up to 60.60% in the GFRP mono composite leaf spring when compared with the traditional steel leaf spring. This study reveals that the GFRP mono composite leaf spring is very highly effective in vibration isolation. Consequently, the results conclude that the implementation of GFRP leaf springs in automotive applications will enhance ride comfort, reduce the chance of resonance, and improves dynamic stability.