LAUSR

Abstract The paper presents the results of experimental research on polyurethane materials used in car suspension systems. Taking into account the frequency of maintenance and the number of replacement metal-rubber bushings on the market, the authors considered it reasonable to carry out their tests of materials with different hardnesses of 80 and 90 ShA used in conventional applications as well as in sports vehicle suspensions. Two types of PUR material were produced for this purpose. The materials were subjected to mechanical tests; tearing, tensile, compression, abrasive wear. Finally, a model of the polyurethane bushing was created and subjected to fatigue tests. As a result, several significant findings were made regarding the influence of hardness on selected mechanical properties. As evidenced by the results of the investigations, even a small increase in material hardness significantly affects changes of fatigue parameters and material fracture-related parameters in general. The pilot results can serve as reference values in the design of anti-failure bushing systems.