Extending the Service Life of Jack Shock-Absorbing Rubber Blocks
Jack shock-absorbing rubber blocks are critical for cushioning, vibration reduction, and load distribution during lifting operations. Their durability directly affects operational safety and performance. Proper design, material selection, and maintenance practices are essential to extend their service life.
1. Material Selection
Choosing the right rubber compound for the specific operating environment is the first step in ensuring long-term performance.
Oil Resistance: Use Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR) for exposure to oils and fuels.
Temperature Resistance: Use EPDM or silicone rubber for high-temperature or outdoor applications.
High Load Capacity: Polyurethane or specially formulated elastomers provide better mechanical strength for heavy-duty operations.
2. Proper Hardness and Elasticity
Selecting rubber with an appropriate Shore A hardness ensures a balance between ease of compression and effective shock absorption. Overly hard blocks may crack under load, while overly soft blocks can deform permanently. Maintaining the correct elasticity reduces stress concentration and deformation over time.
3. Environmental Protection
Avoid Exposure to Aggressive Chemicals: Minimize contact with solvents, oils, or acids that can cause swelling or softening.
UV and Ozone Protection: Apply anti-ozone coatings or store blocks away from sunlight and ozone sources to prevent surface cracking.
Temperature Management: Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold to reduce thermal aging or brittleness.
4. Load Management and Usage Practices
Avoid Overloading: Ensure the jack is used within its rated load to prevent excessive stress and deformation.
Even Load Distribution: Proper alignment prevents localized stress that can accelerate wear.
Controlled Lifting and Lowering: Minimize sudden impacts or jerks during operation to reduce fatigue damage.
5. Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Inspect blocks for signs of cracking, bulging, hardening, or debonding.
Clean surfaces to remove oil, dust, or debris that may affect performance.
Replace blocks showing significant wear before they compromise safety.
6. Manufacturing and Installation Considerations
Ensure proper vulcanization and quality control during production.
Use correct bonding methods or mechanical fastening to secure rubber blocks.
During installation, avoid excessive compression or misalignment that could initiate early wear.
Conclusion
Extending the service life of jack shock-absorbing rubber blocks requires careful material selection, appropriate hardness, environmental protection, proper load management, regular inspection, and correct manufacturing and installation practices. Implementing these measures ensures consistent performance, safety, and longevity of the rubber blocks.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
ASTM D573 – Standard Test Method for Rubber—Deterioration in an Air Oven.
ASTM D395 – Standard Test Methods for Rubber Property—Compression Set.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
