Observations of MR Fluid Clumping Behaviour in a Squeeze-Mode Damper

The study summarises the results of quasistatic experimental tests of an MR squeeze-mode damper prototype (MRSQD) performed at the MTS testing machine. Of particular interests was the influence of MR fluid clumping behaviour in the MRSQD working gap on the force output of the device. The MRSQD tests were assessed by measuring the damping force output at prescribed sinusoidal displacement inputs and at various (fixed) voltage levels resulting in the respective average current levels in the control coil. The influence of piston position offset on the damping force was also investigated. The collected data were shown in the form of damping force time histories and damping force-piston displacements loops and discussed with respect to MR fluid clumping behaviour.