Susceptibility of Electric Vehicle Jack Support Blocks to Damage
Jack support blocks in electric vehicles (EVs) are crucial components that provide cushioning, load distribution, and stability during lifting operations. Due to design constraints, lighter vehicle frames, and unique material compositions, these support blocks are often more prone to damage compared to conventional vehicles.
1. Causes of Damage
High Localized Stress: EVs often use lightweight chassis materials, which can concentrate stress on jack support blocks, leading to cracking or deformation.
Overloading: Exceeding the rated capacity of the jack or support block can result in permanent deformation or failure.
Material Incompatibility: Using rubber or polymer compounds not optimized for EV operating conditions (e.g., higher temperatures from battery proximity) can accelerate wear.
Edge Lifting or Misalignment: Improper contact between the jack and vehicle lifting points increases stress at block edges, causing premature damage.
Environmental Exposure: UV, ozone, temperature fluctuations, and battery-related heat can accelerate rubber aging, hardening, or cracking.
2. Effects on Performance
Reduced Safety: Damaged support blocks can slip, collapse, or fail during lifting, risking operator injury and vehicle damage.
Uneven Load Distribution: Deformation or cracking concentrates forces in small areas, increasing wear on both the block and vehicle chassis.
Shortened Service Life: Continuous stress and environmental degradation reduce the lifespan of jack support blocks in EVs.
3. Preventive Measures
Material Optimization: Use high-strength, heat-resistant, and chemically stable rubber or polymer compounds suitable for EV applications.
Proper Load Management: Always follow manufacturer-specified load ratings for the jack and support block.
Correct Installation: Ensure full contact and proper alignment between the jack and vehicle lifting points.
Environmental Protection: Minimize exposure to UV, ozone, and excessive heat during storage and operation.
Regular Inspection and Replacement: Check for cracks, deformation, or edge lifting, and replace support blocks before they reach critical wear.
4. Conclusion
Electric vehicle jack support blocks are more vulnerable to damage due to higher localized stress, material constraints, and environmental factors. Proper material selection, adherence to load limits, careful installation, and routine inspection are essential to ensure safety, performance, and extended service life.
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 and Industrial 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.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
