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Air Springs: A Basic Guide

Air Springs: A Basic Guide

Air springs, also known as air bags, are essential components used to support and cushion heavy loads as part of the larger air suspension system. Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension powered by an electric or engine-driven air pump or compressor. This compressor pumps the air into flexible bellows, usually made from textile-reinforced rubber. Air suspension offers similar features to hydropneumatic suspension but utilizes pressurized air rather than pressurized liquid. The air pressure inflates the bellows and raises the chassis from the axle.

In this post, we will discuss the applications of air springs, some of their benefits, the different types of air springs, as well as the components of air springs, and then finally some maintenance tips. 

Applications

Air springs find applications in various industries:

Heavy-Duty Vehicles: Trucks, buses, and trailers benefit from air springs due to their load-carrying capacity and ability to absorb shocks.
Heavy Equipment: Off-road equipment, construction vehicles, and agricultural machinery rely on air springs for stability and operator comfort.
Passenger Cars: Luxury SUVs and light trucks incorporate air springs for improved ride quality.
Trains: Passenger trains use air springs in order to dampen horizontal and vertical movement 


Benefits
  1. Consistent Performance: Air springs maintain their characteristics over time, ensuring reliable performance.
  2. Load-Carrying Capacity: They handle heavy loads effectively without compromising stability.
  3. Adjustability: Air pressure adjustments allow fine-tuning of ride height and spring rate.
  4. Durability: Air springs withstand harsh conditions and require less maintenance than traditional springs.
Types of Air Springs

There are many different types of air springs on the market, but they primarily fall under two basic types: sleeve style and bellows (or convoluted) style.

Sleeve Style
A sleeve style air spring

Sleeve style air springs are designed for lift and ride control. The internally mounted sleeve is covered by a bag, made of flexible, heavy-gauge rubber. The bag is crimped into the spring mount on one end and swaged onto the opposite end, sealing the contents inside. When air is compressed into the spring, the two-piece sleeve extends, lengthening the assembly in order to achieve the desired height.

Sleeve style air springs are useful in applications where space is limited and loads are light. These factors make sleeve style air springs ideal for light-duty trucks and track cars.

Bellows Style
A double bellows air spring

Bellows style (also called convoluted) air springs are made from heavy-duty rubber reinforced configured with either one or more convoluted chambers or “bellows”. Bellows style airbags are typically larger than sleeve style, allowing them to handle greater loads. Their size and shape allow bellows style air bags to lift the same weight as sleeve style springs with about half the air pressure.

The extra lifting capability and larger diameter makes bellows style air springs more suitable for medium- & heavy-duty trucks, work trucks, motorhomes, and trailers.

Components of Air Springs
  • Air Spring Body

    The air spring body is the central part of the air spring. It consists of layers of durable rubber or synthetic material designed to withstand the pressure of compressed air. Its specific shape and design determine the spring force and travel for the suspension system.
  • End Caps

    Located at both ends of the air spring body, end caps serve as secure connection points for mounting hardware. End caps house the piston and valve systems that regulate air pressure within the air spring.
  • Piston

    The piston moves inside the air spring body, compressing or expanding the air volume to adjust the spring rate and ride height. Typically connected to the vehicle frame or suspension system via mounting hardware.
  • Mounting Hardware

    Used to secure the air spring to the vehicle chassis or suspension system. Includes brackets, bolts, nuts, and washers for a stable connection.
  • Connection Points

    Ports or fittings on the end caps allow the air spring to connect to an air supply system. These threaded or push-to-connect fittings accommodate various air lines and valves.
  • Valve Systems

    Regulate air pressure inside the air spring. Manual or automatic valves, pressure sensors, and control modules work together to maintain a reliable and efficient suspension system.

Understanding these components helps diagnose issues and ensures proper installation and maintenance of air springs in industrial applications, heavy-duty trucks, and other vehicles.

Maintenance Tips

Here are some tips to allow you to maximize the performance of your air springs and prevent issues. 

Inspection and Testing:

  • Regular inspections are crucial to identify wear, damage, or leaks in air springs.
  • Visual inspection, pressure testing, and load testing help ensure optimal performance.
  • Address any abnormalities promptly to prevent further issues.

Replacement and Installation:

  • When replacing an air spring, choose the correct replacement part.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions meticulously.
  • Steps include removing the old air spring, cleaning the mounting surface, and aligning the new one with the correct torque.

Common Problems and Solutions:

  • Common issues: leaks, cracks, punctures, and wear.
  • Causes: age, usage, and environmental conditions.
  • Solutions: patching, replacement, or addressing underlying causes.

Tips for Prolonging Air Spring Life:

  • Follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance, usage, and storage.
  • Regularly clean air springs, maintain proper inflation, and avoid overloading or harsh impacts.
  • Address any issues promptly to prevent costly repairs and downtime.
Air Springs at Iron Wing

At Iron Wing, we carry a large range of air springs for Light & Heavy-Duty Trucks. Our inventory includes air springs from Bridgestone-Firestone, Goodyear, W&CContintental-ContiTech, and more!

All of our parts are In-Stock and Ready-to-Ship in order to help minimize downtime. Browse our many categories, or search our inventory by part #, description, or manufacturer to find the parts you need.