Advanced knowledge of mechanical characteristics of metal-elastomer springs is useful in their design process and selection. It can also be used in simulating dynamics of machine where such elements are utilized. Therefore this paper presents a procedure for preparing and executing FEM modelling of a single metal-elastomer spring, also called Neidhart’s spring, for low-rate deformations. Elastomer elements were made of SBR rubber of two hardness values: 50°Sh and 70°Sh. For the description of material behaviour the Bergström-Boyce model has been used.

Neidhart type suspension units composed of metal-elastomer torsion springs can be a good alternative to steel helical springs in applications such as vibration absorbers or vehicle suspension systems. Assembling this type of spring requires initial preload of the elastomeric working elements, which determines their operating properties.The results of experimental tests and numerical simulations concerning the preload of elastomeric working elements in Neidhart type suspension units are presented in the paper. The performed research made it possible to propose a new calculation model for determining the preload force value acting on the elastomeric cylindrical elements applied in this type of suspension unit. The results obtained using the proposed model exhibit good convergence with FEM simulation results within the range of the tested geometrical and material properties.

Energy harvesting from mechanical vibration of buildings is usually realized by the use of devices, in which the main element is a prismatic beam with a rectangular cross-section. The beam has been the subject of scientific research; it is usually constructed with a carrying substrate that does not have piezoelectric characteristics and from piezoelectric material. In contrast, this investigation sought to create a beam structure with a piezoelectric composite only. The entire beam structure was made of a prototype piezoelectric particulate composite. Based on courses of voltage obtained in laboratory experiments and known geometry of the specimens, a series of finite element method (FEM) simulations was performed, aiming to estimate the piezoelectric coefficient d31 value at which the mentioned voltage could be achieved. In each specimen, sedimentation caused the formation of two distinct layers: top and bottom. The experiments revealed that the presented prototype piezoelectric particulate composite converts mechanical stress to electric energy in bending mode, which is used in energy harvesting from mechanical vibration. It is self-supporting and thus a carrying substrate is not required in the harvester structure.

The paper concerns the problem of the occurrence of failures of the high-pressure ammonia water pipeline of the coke oven battery complex, which is affected by chemical and thermal factors as well as the operating pressure occurring during its use. Pipeline failures manifested themselves as leaks (leakage of the medium) due to cracks in the area of the pipeline thermal elongation compensators. The conducted tests included, among others: visual inspection, penetration tests, macroscopic and microscopic tests as well as chemical analysis of the material. The study includes microscopic photographs of the material structure and cracks. The results of the pipeline strength and reliability analysis were also presented. On the basis of the conducted research and analyses conclusions were formulated. The assumed cause of the damage was the incorrectly made welded joints. Formulated recommendations and proposals for actions aimed at avoiding further failures of this and similar pipelines were related to the inspection time and preventive renewal.

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