Effect of Loading on Various Point of Steering Knuckle

Abstract

This study was aimed at developing general procedures for fatigue analysis and optimization of safety-critical
automotive components with manufacturing considerations. A literature survey was conducted, specimen and component tests
were performed, and optimization evaluations of similar components produced by different manufacturing material were made to
achieve the objectives. The typical example component chosen was a vehicle steering knuckle made of six competing materials
and manufacturing processes including forged steel, cast aluminum and cast iron. In the literature survey, manufacturing
processes were studied and compared with focus on mechanical behavior. The methods used in the literature for fatigue life
evaluation and prediction of automotive components, as well as for optimization studies with respect to geometry, material and
manufacturing aspects were also reviewed. Comparisons of materials and properties, along with components’ behaviors were
made for competing material and manufacturing processes. In terms of structural performance and durability, based on both
material testing and component evaluation, forged steel was found superior to cast iron which in turn was found superior to cast
aluminum.