Uncured Rubber Used in New Shock Absorber
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ASHOCK absorber in which the resistance element is uncured synthetic rubber in its plastic state, has recently been introduced for commercial vehicles by Universal Dampers, Ltd., Cranrnore Boulevard, Shirley, near Birmingham. The body of the component, which is the stationary member secured to the chassis, contains a rotor connected by an extension arm to the axle.
After the components have been assembled the resistance medium is forced under high pressure into the body, through the centre of the rotor shaft, so that the whole of the space in the interior is filled. A tongue-piece on the end cover-plate serves to anchor the material in the centre, whilst perforations in the rotor perform a similar function on the outside.
It will be appreciated that in order to move the rotor, the filling material must be displaced, and it is the resistance offered to this displacement which gives the necessary damping action. Whilst the component is provided with a sealing washer, there is little likelihood of the filler medium escaping owing to its viscous nature.
The resistance offered by the shock absorber can be adjusted within limits by screwing the filler plug in or out, the degree of movement either way being half a turn.
There are some points of outstanding interest in this new accessory, amongst which may be mentioned the simplicity of construction, ease of mounting, and perhaps the most important from the maintenance point of view, it requires no further attention after it has been installed.
It is known as the Rotoflo, and while it has been available for some time for use on private cars, it is only recently that model A4 has been available; it is designed for loads of 2 tons per wheel. The weight of the accessory is 12 lb. and it is 51 ins, high and 7 ins. square at the base.
" The Rotoflo will be shown on stand 314 at the forthcoming Commercial Vehicle Show at Earls Court.