Breakaway Force Reduction in Pneumatic Cylinders utilizing Ultrasound

• Applicants: Dr.-Ing. Jens Twiefel; Professor Dr.-Ing. Jörg Wallaschek
• Subject Area: Mechanics ; Applied Mechanics, Statics and Dynamics
• Term: from 2015 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 280032959

Using pneumatic cylinders as actuators is desirable in a variety of applications requiring smooth and accurate start-ups. Though this approach can not be sufficiently realized since high adhesive forces between piston and seal cause high breakaway forces. Exploring different possible solutions has not yet led to an optimal operational behavior. On the contrary, these approaches introduce negative side-effects achieving only limited improvement considering the problem stated above. However, an alternative and innovative technology to reduce the breakaway forces can be found in superimposing the process with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations. The promising potential of this implementation concept has already been examined at the Institute of Dynamics and Vibration Research by executing several pre-tests. Depiction and validation of the breakaway force reduction by superimposing ultrasonic vibrations thus are to be carried out within the framework of the submitted research project. Own expertise and the pre-tests as well as research work of other academics provide the basis for this intention. Therefore, developing a fundamental proof of technical usefulness is the main project objective. Thus experimental studies as well as model-based description of contact mechanics in consideration of material properties, seal characteristics and ultrasonic vibration attributes will be carried out. Compiling standard procedures for designing friction reduction systems with a plastic-metal-contact will be executed by usage of the gained results and expertise. Development of a fully functional ultrasonic assisted pneumatic cylinder for validation of the design guideline will conclude the research project.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants