Typical Characteristics of Variable Damper Using MR Fluid

Abstract

In this research, two types of variable dampers using MR fluid were manufactured and their typical characteristics were compared experimentally. MR fluid can change the rheological characteristics under the applied magnetic field. They are adopted double-ended piston-rod and double cylinder type. The magnetic circuits was designed to focus magnetic flux lines using FEM, but they differ in the course of the magnetic circuit. The damping force of prototype MR dampers was experimentally measured under sinusoidal excitation at various amplitudes, frequencies, clearances of orifice and applied magnetic field strength. Experimental investigation shows that the maximum damping force of the type B damper is about eight times as large as that of the type A.