Build an Oleo Strut: Tips, Instructions & Max Energy Absorption

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around building an oleo strut, including inquiries about construction techniques and theoretical energy absorption capabilities. Participants explore the metalworking concepts involved, the design parameters, and the operational principles of oleo struts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks assistance in building an oleo strut and questions the maximum energy absorption possible, noting that hobbyist results are typically low.
  • Another participant suggests that the theoretical maximum energy absorption is limitless, depending on the size and components used, particularly the accumulator and blowoff valve.
  • A participant questions the practicality of using margarine in construction, indicating confusion about materials.
  • Further clarification is provided regarding the maximum dimensions of the strut and how structural integrity affects energy absorption limits.
  • Participants discuss the role of an accumulator as a reservoir for excess fluid and the necessity of a blowoff valve, explaining that oleo struts operate as air-over-oil hybrids, which complicates pressure dynamics during use.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the theoretical limits of energy absorption and the necessity of components like blowoff valves, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention size restrictions and structural integrity concerns, but these parameters are not definitively established, leaving room for further exploration and clarification.

ElementsnStuff
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I was wondering if anyone could assist me in building my own oleo strut or lead me to some detailed instructions, as I'm new to the metalworking concepts that I presume will be involved.

Also, out of curiosity, how 'absorbant' can an oleo strut be built - that is, what is the maximum energy one can absorb theoretically? I've only ever seen results in the single-digit joules for hobbyists - not too thrilling, to be honest.
 
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ElementsnStuff said:
what is the maximum energy one can absorb theoretically
That is essentially limitless, since no size restrictions are given. That absorption will be through whatever you use as an accumulator or blowoff valve, not the cylinder itself (unless its structural integrity is less than the other 2). If you have only the cylinder with no valving, then back to answer #1.
 
You are building something out of ... margarine??
 
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Danger said:
That is essentially limitless, since no size restrictions are given. That absorption will be through whatever you use as an accumulator or blowoff valve, not the cylinder itself (unless its structural integrity is less than the other 2). If you have only the cylinder with no valving, then back to answer #1.

Alright then, I guess I can dig up some size restrictions, although these aren't really set in stone. Max dimensions would be 2.5 inches tall by 1.56 inches wide by 1 inch deep.

What is an 'accumulator'?

Also, I thought oleo struts stayed at a constant inner pressure with no load applied - why would a blowoff valve be necessary?
 
ElementsnStuff said:
Max dimensions would be 2.5 inches tall by 1.56 inches wide by 1 inch deep.
In that case, the limits would be upon the structural integrity of the seals and the cylinder components. If those walls are 1/2" thick, it will take more than if they're only .1".

ElementsnStuff said:
What is an 'accumulator'?
An accumulator is a "reservoir" into which excess fluid is routed and/or stored under pressure.
ElementsnStuff said:
Also, I thought oleo struts stayed at a constant inner pressure with no load applied - why would a blowoff valve be necessary?
An oleo strut is not just oleo (meaning "oil"); it's actually an air-over-oil hybrid. That should be obvious from the usage, since oil is a liquid and thus not compressible. The pressure is constant while under static conditions, as you say, but those don't exist during use. Blowoff valves are like fuses in an electrical circuit; they let the fluid/air out before it can rupture the working parts.
 

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