Comparative analysis between aluminium and steel based bicycle crank using numerical simulation

The crank is a very important part of a bicycle as it converts the reciprocating motion of the pedal into rotary motion. It should have sufficient strength to withstand the bending and twisting moments to which it is subjected. This work describes the stress distribution and deformation of the structural steel and aluminium alloy cranks used in bicycles. Increasing strength of the products with reduced or same weight is important demand of the modern world. The stress analysis results are significant to select the best material to design the bicycle crank. Hence, two objectives of this work are: (1) To determine the recommended design for manufacturing of the Bicycle crank out of the three proposed designs. (2) To select the suitable material for manufacturing of the crank using the finite element analysis. Copyright (c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 4th International Conference on Advances in Mechanical Engineering and Nanotechnology.

Automated summary

This work describes the stress distribution and deformation of structural steel and aluminium alloy cranks used in bicycles, emphasizing the importance of selecting the best material for designing bicycle cranks.