STRESS ANALYSIS AND STRUCTURAL OPTIMIZATION OF A TILTING PIN FOR HYDRAULIC PUMP APPLICATIONS

Aims: This study aims to enhance the durability and fatigue resistance of tilting pins used in hydraulic pump regulators by reducing stress concentration through structural optimization. Methodology: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was conducted to evaluate stress concentration under axial and lateral loads on the cantilever as well as lateral load on the head. Structural modifications included changing the cantilever side angle, adding an arch-shaped support, and increasing the neck thickness of the head. Results: Reducing the cantilever side angle from 120° to 105° increased the stress distribution area, reducing stress by 2% with a 1.56% weight increase. Adding an arch-shaped support reduced stress by 3% with a 0.7% weight increase. Combined, these changes led to a 6% stress reduction with a 2.26% weight increase. Under lateral load, applying a 5 mm fillet at the cantilever-body intersection reduced stress by 38.3% with only a 0.3% weight increase. Increasing neck thickness from 2 mm to 4 mm reduced maximum stress from 2207 MPa to 1897 MPa, a 14% reduction. Conclusion: Targeted structural modifications significantly enhanced the fatigue resistance and durability of the tilting pin with minimal weight gain. This study provides an effective approach to improving the performance and reliability of hydraulic pump regulators.