Validation of Torsional Rigidity of FSAE Chassis

The aim of this paper is to study the torsional stiffness of FSAE space frame chassis by FEA and experimental testing. The chassis is the skeleton of the car which holds all other components. Torsional forces are experienced by the chassis when a foreign object comes below any one of the tyres, although the forces are damped by the dampers connected to the A-arms, and the anti-roll bar, the chassis experiences the torsional forces through the hard points (suspension mounting points). Torsional forces are also experienced when the car is taking a turn. The chassis was designed by Shaurya Racing following the rules of Formula Bharat 2018. The chassis was designed for maximum strength and minimum weight which can withstand all the static and dynamic loads. The AISI1026 chassis weighs 25Kgs (without any brackets) which is 8Kgs lesser than the 2017 chassis. The jig for testing was designed for lesser cost and easier manufacturing. The FEA results of torsional rigidity were compared to the experimental values. The same test is done repeatedly at the same point with different loads to eliminate errors in the experiment.