Design of Damper for Hydropneumatic Dynamic Track Tensioning System

International Journal of Mechanical Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJME Journal

Volume 12 Issue 10

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Kavi Valluvan V, Vijaya Kumar K R, Subodh Kumar Nirala, Rajesh Kumar J

10.14445/23488360/IJME-V12I10P113

How to Cite?

Kavi Valluvan V, Vijaya Kumar K R, Subodh Kumar Nirala, Rajesh Kumar J, "Design of Damper for Hydropneumatic Dynamic Track Tensioning System," SSRG International Journal of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 10, pp. 149-156, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488360/IJME-V12I10P113

Abstract:

The cross-country mobility is a predominant characteristic of a tracked Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV) to efficiently manoeuvre through hostile terrain conditions prevailing in a battlefield scenario. A well-matched Running Gear System (RGS) with a suitable track tensioner of the vehicle ensures superior mobility and obviates the chances of track shedding. An introduction of a dynamic track tensioning system, in lieu of an existing manually operated track tensioner, ensures all-time instantaneous track tension and retention during vehicle running on undulated ground surfaces. In this research work, an effort has been made to develop an in-built damping system to be used in a Hydropneumatic Dynamic Track Tensioner (HDTT) to attenuate induced vibration in the system. This paper also elaborates on the concept of a compact damper configuration and its incorporation into the HDTT, the one-dimensional flow analysis using AMESim software, the realisation of damper hardware, and subjecting it to flow analysis in a hydraulic test bench. The novelty of this damping system lies in its integrated real-time control approach that combines dynamic track tension regulation with vibration attenuation, all within a compact hydropneumatic unit. The incorporation of the proposed damper within the HDTT ensures real-time vibration suppression and significantly reduces track shedding. The system is validated by one-dimensional flow analysis using AMESim software and experimental hydraulic test bench evaluation, bridging simulation and prototype testing. Thus, it enhances cross-country mobility, track life, and combat readiness of tracked armored fighting vehicles, representing a significant advancement over existing fixed or purely mechanical tensioning solutions.

Keywords:

Armoured fighting vehicle, Cross-country mobility, Hydraulic damper, Hydropneumatic dynamic track tensioner, Inbuilt damper, Running gear system.

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