This study evaluates the mechanical properties of jute, E-glass, and hybrid fiber-reinforced composites to identify a suitable replacement for conventional metal leaf springs in automotive applications. Tensile, flexural, and impact tests were conducted in accordance with ASTM standards on three composites made from woven jute and woven E-glass fibers at a 70:30 volume fraction. Among all samples, the E-glass composite exhibited the highest mechanical performance, achieving tensile and flexural strengths of 404.84 MPa and 229.06 MPa, respectively, along with the maximum impact strength of 73.42 MPa. These results indicate that E-glass fiber composites offer superior strength and energy absorption characteristics in contrast to jute and hybrid composites, making them a strong candidate for lightweight automotive suspension components. To further assess the mechanical properties, a numerical analysis was carried out in ANSYS using the same E-glass-epoxy incorporating 70:30 volume fraction. The simulation aimed to evaluate stress reduction, deformation behavior, and strain-energy absorption relative to a conventional steel leaf spring. The composite leaf spring demonstrated a 4.58% reduction in stress under identical loading conditions, an 89.36% increase in deformation capability, and an 89.86% improvement in strain-energy absorption. Additionally, the composite design achieved a significant weight reduction of 74.5%. Overall, the findings highlight the potential of E-glass fiber-reinforced composites as an efficient, lightweight alternative to traditional steel leaf springs, offering enhanced mechanical performance and improved ride quality.
Published in: 8th IEOM Bangladesh International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Publisher: IEOM Society International
Date of Conference: December 20
-21
, 2025
ISBN: 979-8-3507-4441-5
ISSN/E-ISSN: 2169-8767