Experimental Analysis of Connecting Rod for Weight Reduction

: Connecting rods are widely used in a variety of engines such as in-line engines, V-engines, opposed cylinder engines, radial engines, and oppose-piston engines and in compressors. The connecting rod is an integral component of internal combustion engine and compressor. It acts as a linkage between piston and crankshaft. The connecting rod has three main zones, namely, the small end (also called piston pin end), the central shank (I-cross-section) and the big end (also called as cra nk pin end). The connecting rod is a pin jointed strut in which more weight is concentrated towards the big end. In that point of view, the location of the center of gravity point of connecting rod lies more towards the big end. The connecting rod can be produced either by casting, powder metallurgy or forging. The connecting rods are mostly made of forged steel, but can be made of aluminum for lightness and the ability to absorb high impact at the expense of durability or titanium for a combination of strength and lightness at the expense of affordability for high performance of engines, or of cast iron. However, connecting rods produced by casting may have blow holes which are adverse from durability and fatigue points of view but improved technology of casting can reduce this problem. The connecting rods manufactured by forging overcome the problem of blow holes and it has better properties than cast rod. The connecting rod manufactured by powder metallurgy has the advantage of being near net shape, reducing material waste. However, the cost of the connecting rod manufactured by powder metallurgy is high due to the high material cost and sophisticated manufacturing techniques.