Numerical Modelling for the Hydraulic Performance Prediction of Automotive Monotube Dampers

A computer model of an automotive monotube damper is developed based on fundamental principles of mechanics. The model can identify the required damper valve and/or size for the desired performance and hence speed the design process. Also, a parametric study can be easily conducted to understand the effects of parameters on the performance. A typical monotube damper is introduced and numerical formulations are described. Satisfactory agreement is achieved between model results and test data for a wide range of parameters including stroke conditions, valve combinations, and gas charge pressure. Some of these results are presented including the correlation at low and high speed strokes, cavitation simulation, and thermal effects on the performance.