Deformation of Shock-Absorbing Blocks After Collisions
Shock-absorbing blocks are designed to absorb impact energy and protect vehicle structures or machinery components during collisions. Even minor impacts can cause permanent deformation, reducing their effectiveness and potentially leading to further damage.
1. Causes of Deformation
Excessive Impact Force: Collisions exceeding the design load can compress, bend, or distort the block.
Material Fatigue: Repeated stresses or prior minor impacts weaken the material, making it more susceptible to deformation.
Aging and Environmental Degradation: UV exposure, heat, cold, moisture, or chemical contact can reduce elasticity and resilience.
Improper Material Selection: Using blocks with inadequate hardness or toughness for the specific application increases deformation risk.
Installation Errors: Misaligned or loosely mounted blocks may deform more easily under impact.
2. Effects of Deformation
Reduced Shock Absorption: Deformed blocks cannot dissipate impact energy effectively, transferring more stress to the vehicle frame or equipment.
Noise and Vibration: Irregular shapes may lead to rattling, squeaking, or vibration during operation.
Accelerated Wear: Surrounding components may experience increased stress, leading to premature damage.
Safety Concerns: In vehicles, deformed blocks may reduce bumper or frame protection in subsequent collisions.
3. Preventive and Corrective Measures
Inspection After Collisions: Check blocks for visible distortion, cracks, or hardening.
Replacement: Replace blocks that show significant deformation to restore proper impact absorption.
Material Upgrade: Use high-quality, UV- and chemical-resistant rubber or polyurethane with suitable hardness for the application.
Proper Installation: Ensure correct alignment and secure mounting to prevent stress concentration.
Environmental Protection: Minimize exposure to extreme temperatures, sunlight, and chemicals that can accelerate material degradation.
4. Conclusion
Collision-induced deformation of shock-absorbing blocks compromises their protective function, increases noise and vibration, and accelerates wear of surrounding components. Regular inspection, proper material selection, correct installation, and timely replacement are essential to maintain performance and safety.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive and Industrial Applications.
SAE J227 – Automotive Bumper Energy Absorber Performance Standards.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
