Audi introduces lightweight lightweight composite material

Audi said it will soon adopt springs in the suspension system made from lightweight synthetic materials on upcoming models. By using Glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) materials , new springs can reduce weight by 40% compared to steel springs before. Specifically, on mid-size sedans, each spring of polymer-reinforced glass fibers will be 1.13kg lighter or 4.4kg less on the total weight of the vehicle.

The weight reduction of spring is very significant for the weight of the suspension (unsprung mass / unsprung weight) . The weight of the suspension system includes the weight of parts: wheels, tires, axles, bridges, bearings, suspension and brake systems. These are the parts that will vibrate according to the road surface. Reducing the weight of the suspension will help the system need less energy to disperse force, so the car will give quick, accurate and traction feedback, as well as less vibration.

In addition, the reduction of spring weight also means that the rotating weight of the rotating parts is as much as the tray, the tire decreases. This will help the car somewhat accelerate faster and feel better braking.

* Unsprung mass / Unsprung weight: is the weight of the suspension system, including the weight of parts: wheels, tires, axles, bridges, bearings, shock absorbers, brakes.

* Sprung weight / Sprung mass : is the total weight remaining of the vehicle, after subtracting the weight of the suspension. It is also interpreted as the total weight under load of the suspension.

The question is, what is the strength of the polymer fiber reinforced spring ? Can it match with previous steel materials? Audi also said that this is possible. In addition to using larger diameter pipes but reducing the number of turns, the new spring is synthesized from twisted glass fibers and wrapped in an epoxy adhesive. The fiberglass-epoxy epoxy structure will then be reinforced with several layers of other fiberglass in two dimensions, creating a angle of +45 degrees and -45 degrees above the existing shaft. Finally, the spring will be cured at temperatures above 100 degrees centigrade.

Audi said that another advantage of the polymer-reinforced fiberglass springs is that it is made of glue and fiberglass, so it is completely resistant to corrosion over time, as well as withstand a large amount of strong chemicals , including wheel cleaner. In addition, the process of manufacturing polymer reinforced fiberglass springs also consumes less energy than the production of steel springs. Audi plans to produce this new spring later this year.