Determining Dynamic Properties of Elastomer-Dampers by Means of Impact Testing

Abstract

Background: Damping elements made of elastomer materials are used in almost every mechanical system to prevent damage to components caused by impact-like excitations and the resulting high-frequency, large-amplitude oscillations. The dynamics of these operating conditions exceed the performance limits of conventional experimental testing methods, impeding validated predictions of the damper’s transmission behaviour. Objective: A method is proposed to directly investigate the influence of impacts on the transmission behaviour of elastomeric dampers by impact testing. Methods: Torsional-loaded elastomer dampers were experimentally investigated using a drop tower. During the experiment, a mass is brought into impact contact with a lever arm connected to the tested coupling. Measurements on resulting torsional oscillations and a comparison of the measurement results with a simple analytical model of the system allow for determining the coupling parameters stiffness and damping ratio. Results: The characteristic parameters stiffness and damping ratio of the elastomer damper were mapped as a function of excitation-amplitude and frequency. A comparison of drop-tower test results with servo-hydraulic measurements validated the determined parameters. Conclusions: Determining the transmission behaviour of elastomeric dampers from highly dynamic and impact-induced oscillation states proved to be a good approach to supplement established testing methods.