Slippage of Automotive Jack Support Blocks
Automotive jack support blocks are essential for providing stability, cushioning, and safe load distribution during vehicle lifting. Slippage of these blocks can compromise safety, cause damage to the vehicle or jack, and pose a serious hazard to operators.
1. Causes of Jack Support Block Slippage
Surface Contamination: Oil, grease, dust, or water on the block or vehicle contact points reduces friction and promotes slippage.
Improper Material Selection: Rubber compounds with insufficient hardness or low friction coefficients may not provide adequate grip under load.
Wear and Deformation: Over time, repeated use can cause surface wear, flattening, or edge lifting, reducing friction.
Incorrect Installation: Misalignment or incomplete contact with the lifting point can create uneven pressure and reduce stability.
Environmental Factors: Wet or icy surfaces can exacerbate slippage, even if the block itself is in good condition.
2. Consequences of Slippage
Safety Hazards: Sudden loss of grip can cause the vehicle to fall or shift, risking injury or property damage.
Vehicle Damage: Uneven or slipping support can dent or scratch chassis and underbody components.
Accelerated Wear: Repeated slippage stresses both the rubber block and the jack structure, shortening service life.
3. Preventive Measures
Material Optimization: Use rubber with appropriate hardness and high friction coefficient suitable for automotive applications.
Clean Contact Surfaces: Remove oil, dirt, or moisture from both the block and vehicle lifting points before operation.
Proper Alignment: Ensure full contact between the jack support block and the designated lifting point on the vehicle.
Environmental Awareness: Avoid using the jack on slippery or unstable surfaces, or use additional anti-slip mats.
Regular Inspection and Replacement: Check for wear, deformation, or edge lifting and replace blocks when necessary.
4. Conclusion
Slippage of automotive jack support blocks is primarily caused by surface contamination, inappropriate material selection, wear, misalignment, and environmental factors. Proper material choice, clean and aligned contact, careful operation, and routine inspection are essential to maintain safety, performance, and reliability during vehicle lifting.
References
Gent, A. N. Engineering with Rubber: How to Design Rubber Components. Hanser Publishers, 2012.
ASTM D2000 – Standard Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive and Industrial Applications.
Lake, G. J. “Fatigue and Fracture of Elastomers.” Rubber Chemistry and Technology, 2000.
ISO 7619-1 – Rubber, Vulcanized or Thermoplastic — Determination of Indentation Hardness.
ISO 2230 – Rubber Products—Guidelines for Storage and Maintenance.
