Precision Engineered Go-Kart Chassis: Utilizing FEA for Superior Design

A go-kart's chassis serves as the backbone of the vehicle, providing structural support for the engine, wheels, and driver. It plays a critical role in ensuring a safe ride. Enhancing go-kart safety and vibration resistance is the primary objective of this research and to achieve this goal, we employ specialized computer tools, such as finite element analysis, and strategic material selection. Our study commences with an in-depth examination of key chassis design parameters like material selection, impact test, and vibration test. Material selection is another crucial aspect of our research, as we strive to strengthen the chassis while reducing its weight. This delicate balance is achieved by exploring innovative material options and evaluating their properties. A critical consideration in our research is ensuring an expected factor of safety to meet industrial standards, guaranteeing that the chassis can withstand enough load and stress. The comparative study between AISI 1018 and AISI 4130 has proven that AISI 4130 is 29.47% stronger than AISI 1018. Furthermore, we investigate vibrations in the kart, utilizing MATLAB coding to simulate the vibrations in our kart chassis and a Python program to represent the vibration to prevent resonance. Vibrations can compromise the vehicle's stability and safety, making this parameter crucial. We verify our findings through graphical representations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of chassis vibrations and enabling the development of effective countermeasures. Optimization done through the study of vibration has reduced the 27.6% of vibration in our kart chassis. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of advanced chassis design and optimization techniques in enhancing go-kart performance, safety, and durability by application of computer tools and strategic material selection.