Analysis of multiple failure behaviors of steering knuckle ball hinge of multi-axle heavy vehicle

The ball hinge is a key component of the vehicle chassis that connects steering knuckle and control arm. study analyzed multiple failure behaviors hinge. Firstly, according to macroscopic characteristics hinge, fault tree analysis method was adopted identify possible cause failure. Then, axial load radial on joint were obtained by simulating force under typical extreme conditions. stress distribution pin finite element joint. calculation results are consistent with fatigue crack position Finally, macro morphology microstructure seat, bowl, dust cover other parts matched further verify mode showed firstly aged cracked, external particles enter into friction contact area which caused bowl be stuck. During operating vehicle, undergoes unidirectional bending fracture in concentration at root conical surface.