Application of magnetorheological fluid in industrial shock absorbers

The paper presents investigation results of a semi-active industrial shock absorber with magnetorheological (MR) fluid, which is capable of controlling the stopping process of moving objects, e.g. on transportation lines. The proposed solution makes it possible to adjust the braking force (by electronic controller) to the kinetic energy of the moving object. The paper presents an overview of passive shock absorbers. Next, the design concept of a semi-active shock absorber with the MR fluid is proposed. The theoretical model and the simulation model of the MR absorber and the stopping process are presented. The paper reports investigations of a prototype MR shock absorber used to stop a mass moving on an inclined plane. The braking force of the absorber was changed by an electronic control system according to the current position of the moving mass. Finally, the simulation and investigation results are discussed and compared. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.