Rubber Blocks for Automotive Service Jacks
Rubber blocks used in automotive service jacks are essential components that provide cushioning, vibration absorption, and safe load distribution during vehicle lifting. They serve as the interface between the jack and the vehicle, protecting both the equipment and the car body from damage.
1. Functions and Importance
Impact Absorption: Rubber blocks cushion sudden forces during lifting or lowering, preventing damage to the vehicle chassis.
Vibration Reduction: They minimize oscillations during jack operation, enhancing stability and safety.
Load Distribution: By evenly spreading the load across the contact surface, they prevent localized stress and deformation, preserving the jack and the vehicle.
2. Material Selection
Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR): Resistant to oils and fuels commonly found in automotive environments.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer): Offers durability in outdoor conditions, with excellent resistance to UV, ozone, and weathering.
Polyurethane: High load-bearing capacity and abrasion resistance, suitable for heavy-duty automotive jacks.
Material choice should consider hardness, elasticity, chemical resistance, and temperature performance.
3. Common Issues
Hardening or Brittleness: Caused by heat, UV exposure, or aging.
Cracking or Surface Damage: Due to repeated load cycles or low temperatures.
Swelling or Softening: Contact with incompatible oils or solvents.
Detachment or Misalignment: Improper installation or poor adhesion to the jack surface.
Regular inspection and timely replacement help prevent operational failures.
4. Installation and Maintenance
Correct Fit: Ensure rubber blocks match the jack contact points for even load distribution.
Environmental Protection: Avoid prolonged exposure to UV, ozone, moisture, and chemicals.
Routine Inspection: Check for cracks, deformation, hardening, or detachment before each use.
Storage: Keep blocks in a cool, dry, and dark environment to preserve material properties when not in use.
5. Conclusion
Rubber blocks for automotive service jacks are vital for safe, efficient, and reliable vehicle lifting. Proper material selection, correct installation, environmental protection, and routine maintenance are key to ensuring long-term performance and operator safety.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive Applications.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ISO 7619-1 – Rubber, Vulcanized or Thermoplastic — Determination of Indentation Hardness.
