Analysis and Optimization of Glass Fiber with Epoxy Resin Composite Leaf Spring Used in Cars

A leaf spring made up of steel, used in the back suspension system of the smaller passenger vehicle like car, is analyzed using analyzing software (ANSYS). By using the finite element analysis response, the stress induced and deflections occurred are substantiated in the analysis software. Using the results and dimensions of the existing leaf spring made of steel, a composite leaf spring made up of glass fiber with epoxy resin is modeled and optimization is performed in the ANSYS analyzing software. The main contemplation is given to optimizing the geometry of the leaf spring. The main objective is to examine the load bearing capacity, stiffness and the weight reduction of composite leaf spring with the leaf spring made of steel. From the result, it is evident that the optimum leaf spring width decreases exaggeratedly and the thickness increases straightly from the spring eyes to the axle seat of the spring. Compared to the leaf spring made of steel, the optimized composite leaf spring has much lower stresses and the weight of the spring without eye and its unit is nearly 79% lower.