Finite element analysis of an air spring concerning initial pressure and parameters of cord fabric layer

A finite element analysis (FEA) model of an air spring was carried out with the software ABAQUS to study the influence of cord fabric layer parameters on the elastic characteristic of air spring. The FEA model was builded and meshed meanwhile by writing program file. The cord fabric was simulated by rebar element. The compressed gas in the cavity of air spring was represented by the hydrostatic fluid element. Results of simulation coincide well with the experimental data gathered by the MTS831 elastic component testing system. The static elastic characteristic of air spring was simulated under different parameters to ascertain the initial pressure and cord fabric Parameters´impact, utilizing sensitivity analysis method. The study reveals that: the cord angle and cord interval influence the elastic characteristics of air spring relatively more and can both be adjusted easily; cord cross section area and layer number have certain impact on air spring elastic characteristics however their adjusts might influence the robustness and distorting pattern of whole structure; considering the robustness of air bag, the initial pressure should not vary too much. The conclusion has certain referencing significance for the design and optimizing of air spring of the same kind.