Heavy Truck Chassis: Maximising Longevity
Construction equipment is the backbone of infrastructure development, and heavy machinery requires a long-lasting chassis to excel in harsh environments. Among other components, truck suspensions involve linkages which connect various parts of the suspension system. These linkages contain some form of a bushing, ball joint, or spherical plain bearing to connect the linkage to the frame. The suspension linkages are required to perform in demanding conditions and an underperforming linkage will prematurely fail or cause other components of the chassis to fail.
One of these linkages is the torque rod that connects truck frames to suspension systems. They play a pivotal role in relieving stress on other suspension components, restraining rotation on axle housing while braking and accelerating, and absorbing cornering and leaning forces.
Understanding the Importance of Torque Rods
Torque rods keep suspension aligned, which improves fuel mileage, reduces tire wear, drag and driveline component wear. They consist of a hollow steel rod with a connection on either side. This connection can be a bushing, straddle bearing or ball joint.
Depending on how the torque rod is positioned, it helps to maintain the either suspensions longitudinal or lateral alignment.
Transverse rods connect the frame to the tandem axle, center the axle and control lateral movement. These rods sit perpendicular to the frame at 90 degrees.
Longitudinal rod ends run parallel to the trucks frame to maintain axle alignment “ connecting the axle to the frame or suspension. They limit rotation of the axle and control the driveline angle and prevent the axle from moving forward or rearward.
V-Link
Used in heavily loaded rear axles like semi-trailer tractors and flatbeds with twin axle assemblies, V-Links combine the functions of longitudinal and transvers torque rods. They control lateral movement, center the axle and limit axle roll.
Manufacturing the Right Fit
For torque rods to handle heavy loads and potential containments, they need proper construction and design. When developing a new vehicle or making improvements to an existing design, consult with a motion control expert. They will review application requirements to verify that the motion control specified is optimal for the application or find alternatives that can extend the life and reduce wear.
Torque rods for harsh environments require the manufacturer to excel throughout the entire process that includes:
High-quality steel: Steel with a fine grain and low non-metal inclusion should be used. Look for a manufacturer that is ISO9001 or TS16949, like CCTY Bearing. These manufacturers inspect all incoming steel to ensure that it meets internal standards.
Traceability: Manufacturers should be able to trace the final product to the steel lot. This shows that they can maintain control throughout production.
Process control: To verify that every product meets established standards, strict controls, electronic tracking and inspections must be in place. Advanced product quality plan (APQP) procedures, ISO/TS 16949 certification, automation and on-site testing maintain precision production.
Heat treatment: Highly controlled heat treatment ensures that the final product is hardened to a specified level “ significantly improving wear resistance and reducing exposure to potential failures.
A quality-focused manufacturer will have their own heat treatment on-site, not subcontracted. Precision torque rod manufacturers like CCTY Bearing maintain all critical processes “ including heat treatment “ in-house for strict control of the final product.
Sealing properties: Construction machinery requires seals to protect the bearing against containments like dirt and liquids, while retaining grease. Depending on the application, the seal may be on both sides of the bearing or just one. The type of bearing, seal friction, shaft surface speed and finish and the space envelope factor into available options.
For more information:
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