The Importance of Dynamic Testing of Elastomers

Certain dynamic methods of testing enable the characterization of elastomeric materials for vibration control in terms of engineering data obtained on fullsized vehicle parts. These dynamic methods are discussed along with several of the traditional rubber test methods currently used in specifying rubber.

The discussion emphasizes the usefulness and limitations of the various test methods. Comparisons are made with different elastomers and rubber compounds, showing how the more sophisticated dynamic tests can detect behavior differences, whereas the traditional test methods would have indicated equivalencies. Also, data are shown that correlate actual ride evaluation with dynamic test results.