Suspension systems are of different types used in automotive vehicles. The main protective effect the vehicle gets from the suspension system, and it also is the handling of the vehicle. In this article, I will discuss the details of 6 types of suspension systems that have been used in cars in the recent year 2024.
Importance of Suspension System
The suspension system is the vital component used in a vehicle. As it protects all the internal parts of the vehicle, this suspension system is an important part of a vehicle. This system not only protects the internal parts but also provides better handling while driving the vehicle.
Springs, axles, Box-Frame, and Shock Absorbers are the main components of this suspension system. All these components are connected protectively so that they can absorb the road shock. Springs are connected to the frame to save the chassis from any hazards on the road.
Also, the box frame and the shock absorber are used to adjust the vehicle length when it is on bumpy roads. Suspension systems are of different types according to the vehicle weight and the design, but the purpose is the same to provide a cushioning effect to the vehicle.
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Types of Suspension Systems
Vehicle suspension systems are of different types depending upon the design of vehicle load capacity. The change in vehicle load can also change the suspension capacity. So, the protection of the vehicle interiors is very important. Followings are the 6 types of suspension systems are discussed.
1. Dependent Suspension System
The dependent suspension system is one type of suspension system used in old vehicles. The design of this suspension system is normal and the load-carrying capacity of this system is very good. In this system, the vehicle load depends on the single-axle frame, and the wheels are moved on a single axle.
Dependent suspension systems are of two types.
- Solid-Axle Suspension System- In this system the wheels are connected with one axle rod and withstand the road shock. If one wheel feels any hazards then it transmits the friction to the other wheel. This system was used in heavy-duty vehicles, but the breakdown of the suspension system is ofently found as it has a fixed connection with the frame.
- Semi-Independent Suspension System- This suspension system is a mix of Dependent and independent suspension systems. The wheels are connected to one axle shaft but can move independently. This design provides a balance between the simplicity and strength of dependent suspension and improved handling and ride comfort
But this type of system is not in use, as there are a lot of advanced systems introduced to the automotive field. The dependent suspension system has the biggest drawback that the axle bar always breaks as it has a fixed connection to the frame.
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2. Independent Suspension System
The Independent Suspension system is commonly used in vehicles as it provides the best riding conditions to the drivers. Both the wheels can move independently to suck the road shock. As this system has fewer components, it also provides extra power to the vehicle.
This system provides better handling to the drivers as the vehicle’s wheels can move independently. The system has different types depending on the design. The types are-
- MacPherson Strut Suspension- This system is used in smaller vehicles as it has coil springs and shock absorbers to work together in a single unit. Both the wheels can operate on different hazards and the performance of this system is quite impressive.
- Double Wishbone Suspension- This system is also known as an A-arm suspension system. Each wishbone or arm has two mounting points to the chassis and one joint at the knuckle. This system has the biggest advantage that, the length of the vehicle is also protected from the bumpers. This system has better handling and a good weight distribution system.
- Multi-link Suspension- This type of suspension system uses two double wishbone suspension systems to absorb the road shock. The system has better handling as it provides better handling on bumpy roads.
- Torsion Bar Suspension- The torsion bar suspension system is a type of semi-independent suspension system as it has a bar connected to both the front wheels and coil springs or shock absorbers are connected to the chassis to absorb the road shock. This system is an effective suspension system as it has lower maintenance costs.
The independent suspension system is used in various small to mid-weight capacity cars to withstand the load. The system is trustworthy and pack of performance.
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3. Air Suspension System
The air suspension system uses compressed air instead of coil springs. The vehicle’s weight is supported by air-made bellows or rubber. Air is pressed into the bellows or the rubber to make the adjustments to the vehicle height and also this can be customized depending on the vehicle load.
This system has the biggest advantage that the system connects the adjustments heights to the ECU. The height and the load of the vehicle adjust depending on the road condition. The system has better and more futuristic control over the vehicle and also has precise control of the vehicle dynamics.
This system can automatically adjust the ride height to maintain a level stance regardless of load, improving stability and handling, especially when towing or carrying heavy cargo.
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4. Hydraulic Suspension System
Hydraulic tubes are connected to the vehicle chassis. In these tubes, hydraulic oil is inserted to adjust the vehicle load depending on the road and load condition. The hydraulic oils are pressurized in the tubes and operate without any noise.
In the tubes, pistons are used to adjust and pressurize the oil. When the wheel hits any bumps, the piston compresses the corresponding cylinder compresses, displacing the fluid. This pressurized fluid can easily absorb the road shock effectively.
In the motorcycle front forks are of hydraulic type suspension system. Some systems allow manual or automatic ride height adjustment for various purposes like off-roading or loading cargo.
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5. Active Suspension System
This suspension system is an advanced system used in various latest automotive. The system works on both electrifying sensors and hydraulic systems. The sensors are used in the system to detect the vehicle load and the road condition.
The height of the vehicle is adjusted depending on the load and the shock coming from the roads is absorbed by the hydraulic fluids. The computer analyzes this data in real time and sends signals to actuators. These actuators actively adjust various suspension components like hydraulic struts, air springs, or electromagnets to manipulate the wheel positions and stiffness.
In many modern cars, this system is used to carry the load and give precise control to the vehicle’s passengers. This has better handling on the road even on bumpy roads, and the load-carrying capacity of these types of vehicles is enough.
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6. Adaptive Suspension System
The adaptive suspension system is a type of semi-active suspension system used in various cars and automobiles to adjust the vehicle load depending on the road condition. This system can adjust the vehicle’s load condition depending on the air suspension, magnetic suspension, and hydraulic types.
The system uses the sensors to adjust the vehicle height on the load. Powerful magnets and hydraulic fluids are used to absorb the major shocks from the road. This system is commonly found in small types of cars for better transportation and handling.
Conclusion
These are some of the main types of suspension systems used in vehicles, each offering a different balance of comfort, handling, cost, and complexity. The choice of suspension system depends on factors such as vehicle type, intended use, and budget.