The difference between air suspension and mechanical suspension in heavy-duty transport vehicles
Publish Time: 2024-12-23
In the field of heavy-duty transport vehicles, the choice of suspension system has a vital impact on the overall performance, ride comfort and maintenance cost of the vehicle. As two common types of suspension, air suspension and mechanical suspension each show different characteristics and advantages in heavy-duty transport vehicles. This article will explore in depth the application of these two suspension systems in heavy-duty transport vehicles and their differences.1. Working principle and structural differencesAir suspension: Working principle: The air suspension system injects compressed air into the airbag through an air compressor, and uses the compressibility of the gas to achieve the buffering and adjustment functions of the suspension. The system is equipped with an advanced electronic control unit that can automatically adjust the hardness and height of the suspension according to factors such as vehicle load, driving speed, road conditions, etc., thereby ensuring optimal driving stability and ride comfort. Structural features: The air suspension consists of complex components such as airbags, air compressors, height control valves, shock absorbers, guide mechanisms and electronic control units. Its structure is complex but highly integrated, and can provide high flexibility and adjustability.Mechanical suspension: Working principle: Mechanical suspension relies on a combination of metal springs (such as leaf springs or coil springs) and shock absorbers to absorb and transmit road shocks. Its working principle is relatively simple and direct, and it cushions vibrations by compressing and releasing the springs. Structural features: The structure of the mechanical suspension is relatively simple, mainly consisting of springs, shock absorbers, connecting rods and brackets. This structure gives mechanical suspension certain advantages in manufacturing costs and maintenance.2. Performance characteristics comparisonRide comfort: Air suspension: Air suspension can automatically adjust the suspension hardness and height, effectively isolate road vibrations, and provide drivers and passengers with a smoother and more comfortable ride experience. Especially in long-distance transportation, air suspension can significantly reduce driving fatigue and improve transportation efficiency. Mechanical suspension: Mechanical suspension is relatively direct in absorbing and transmitting vibrations, which may lead to poor ride comfort. Especially in complex road conditions, mechanical suspension may not provide sufficient buffering effect, affecting the ride experience of drivers and passengers.Handling performance:Air suspension: The height adjustability and adaptability of the air suspension enable it to automatically adjust the suspension state according to changes in vehicle load and road conditions, thereby improving the handling stability and passability of heavy-duty transport vehicles. At high speeds or in complex road conditions, air suspension can provide better handling performance and ensure driving safety.Mechanical suspension: The handling performance of the mechanical suspension is relatively fixed and cannot be dynamically adjusted according to road conditions and loads. Under complex road conditions, the mechanical suspension may not provide sufficient support and stability, affecting the handling performance of the vehicle.Adaptability:Air suspension: The height adjustability of the air suspension enables it to adapt to changes in different loads and road conditions, maintain the horizontal posture of the vehicle body, and improve the transportation efficiency and stability of heavy-duty transport vehicles. Whether it is loaded or unloaded, the air suspension can ensure the best driving state of the vehicle.Mechanical suspension: The adaptability of the mechanical suspension is relatively poor, and its suspension hardness and height cannot usually be adjusted according to load changes. When carrying heavy objects, the mechanical suspension may cause the vehicle body to tilt or sink, affecting the stability and handling of the vehicle.3. Durability and maintenance costAir suspension:Durability: The durability of the air suspension system is affected by its complex structure and electronic components. However, with the advancement of technology and the development of materials science, the reliability of modern air suspension systems has been greatly improved. As long as it is regularly maintained and serviced, the life of the air suspension can reach a high level.Maintenance cost: The maintenance cost of the air suspension system is relatively high. Because it contains multiple electronic and pneumatic components, car owners need to regularly check and replace related parts to ensure the normal operation of the system. In addition, the maintenance technical requirements of the air suspension are also high, and professional technicians are required to operate it.Mechanical suspension:Durability: The mechanical suspension structure is relatively simple and stable and reliable, so its durability is generally good. Even if used for a long time, the mechanical suspension is less prone to serious failures. However, under harsh road conditions, the springs and shock absorbers of the mechanical suspension may be subject to greater wear and tear, and need to be regularly inspected and replaced.Maintenance cost: The maintenance cost of the mechanical suspension is relatively low. Car owners only need to regularly check the wear of components such as springs and shock absorbers and replace them. In addition, the maintenance technical requirements of mechanical suspension are relatively low, and the owner can operate it by himself or entrust general maintenance personnel.4. Application scenarios and cost-effectivenessAir suspension:Application scenarios: Air suspension is mainly used in high-end heavy-duty transport vehicles, special vehicles and vehicles with high requirements for suspension performance. These vehicles are usually used for long-distance transportation, heavy-load transportation or transportation tasks under complex road conditions.Cost-effectiveness: Although the initial investment cost of air suspension is high, the improvement in ride comfort, handling performance and adaptability it brings can significantly improve the transportation efficiency of heavy-duty transport vehicles and reduce driving fatigue, thereby bringing long-term economic benefits.Mechanical suspension:Application scenarios: Mechanical suspension is widely used in various types of heavy-duty transport vehicles, especially low-end vehicles and vehicles with low requirements for suspension performance. These vehicles are usually used for short-distance transportation, light-load transportation or transportation tasks with good road conditions.Cost-effectiveness: The initial investment cost of mechanical suspension is low, and the maintenance cost is relatively low. For heavy-duty transport vehicles with limited budgets or low requirements for suspension performance, mechanical suspension is an economical choice.In summary, the application of air suspension and mechanical suspension in heavy-duty transport vehicles each has its own characteristics and advantages. Air suspension performs well in terms of ride comfort, handling performance and adaptability, but the cost and maintenance requirements are relatively high; while mechanical suspension is widely popular for its simple structure, good durability and low maintenance cost. When choosing, car owners should weigh their actual needs and budget to choose the suspension system that best suits their vehicle.
