Vehicle shock absorption systems typically consist of damping mechanisms, oil circuits, and pre-loading springs. When it comes to selecting shock absorber springs, there are three main types to consider: equidistant springs, double pitch springs, and progressive pitch springs. The pitch refers to the change in spring density. Which type is best suited for your vehicle? Let's explore the differences among three types of shock absorber springs.
The primary difference lies in how the three types of springs compress under different loading weights. Therefore, when designing suspension springs with different pitches, they will exhibit different effects..
Equidistant Springs:.
Equidistant springs maintain a constant k value, or spring rate, until they reach their compression limit. Therefore, the amount of compression is directly proportional to the weight of the load. Equidistant springs have a low production cost and provide a linear response. They offer a sense of security during heavy braking and are easy to adjust for pre-loading and damping. As a result, equidistant springs are commonly used in competition-oriented suspensions. However, for general road use, the k value is typically set to a lower level. This can lead to insufficient support during heavy braking. Conversely, if the k value is set too high for heavy loads, the ride quality on normal roads can become too rigid, making it challenging to absorb the impact of uneven surfaces..
Advantages:
Best linear reactivity and controllability.
Easy to adjust.
Low cost.
Disadvantages:.
Difficulty achieving a balance between intense and comfortable driving.
Double Pitch Springs:.
Double pitch springs have a slightly higher production cost compared to equidistant springs. However, they offer better comfort on general roads. These springs have two k values, allowing the part with the lower k value to compress first when encountering jumps or shocks on uneven roads. When emergency braking occurs, the part compressed to the higher k value maintains supportability. One drawback is the noticeable non-linear reaction when compression reaches a turning point.
Advantages:
Improved comfort
Better adjustability
Disadvantages:
Obvious non-linear reaction at the turning point during compression
Progressive Springs:
Progressive pitch springs have a higher production cost. Each coil has a different pitch, resulting in varying k values across the entire spring. This design combines the advantages of double pitch springs with smooth turning points. As the load increases, the spring gradually reduces compression, providing better buffering. Progressive springs offer the best damping reaction. However, selecting the correct overall k value change rate is crucial. Without proper selection, the complete working stroke cannot be utilized effectively. Additionally, adjusting pre-loading becomes more challenging with progressive springs, and setting rebound damping requires greater precision due to different k values at various suspension strokes.
Advantages:
Suitable for both sporty and leisure driving without k value turning points.
Disadvantages:
Difficult to set
Not linear enough
In summary, each type of shock absorber spring has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before making a choice, consider the specific requirements of your vehicle, such as the desired settings and pre-load adjustments. Correct pre-loading setting is essential as it forms the basis for the overall shock absorption setup. Once pre-loading is set correctly, subsequent damping adjustments become meaningful.