Root cause analysis of rattle noise in twin-tube vehicle dampers

Abstract

The aim of this work is to provide an insight into the rattle noise phenomena occurring in double-tube (twin-tube) vehicle suspension dampers. In the dampers the particular phenomenon results from interactions between the valve(s) and the fluid passing through them. The rattling noise phenomena is known to degrade the vehicle passenger’s perception of ride comfort as well as to influence the performance of the dampers at low and medium speeds in particular. In the paper the authors reveal the results of a DOE (Design of Experiment) study involving several design parameters known to affect rattling occurrence. By running a series of purpose-designed tests the authors investigate not only the contribution of each particular parameter but the interactions between them. The results are presented in the form of pareto charts, main effect plots as well as interaction plots. It is expected the outcome of the analysis will aid in a better comprehension of the phenomena as well the definition of valve configurations to minimize their performance degradation.