Design Optimization of Forged Wheel Hubs For Commercial Vehicles

The keen competition in the automobile industry has in many cases necessitated the adoption of new manufacturing techniques for vehicle components. Forgings especially are being replaced today by castings and fabricated components. The authors show on the example of a forged front wheel hub how weight savings of up to 30% may be achieved on a standard hub forging.

The weight savings are achieved through a design methodology called “Service Strength Analysis,” whereby both structural analysis and testing are done under simulated service loadings.

The wheel hub is a highly stressed safety component on which the function of other components such as axles, wheels and brakes depend. Service Strength Analysis allows lightweight design to be carried out without sacrifices of reliability; it also allows an effective evaluation of the influence of new low cost manufacturing techniques on the service strength of parts.