%0 Journal Article %T A fracture study of a connecting rod from a refrigeration compressor %A Ernesto Germ¨¢n Porras %A John Jairo Coronado Mar¨ªn %A Sara Rodr¨ªguez Pulecio %J - %D 2010 %X This paper analysed the fracture of a connecting rod from a food product refrigeration compressor. According to the connecting rod-crank mechanism¡¯s operating characteristics, the element being studied was subjected to variable load cycles. Connecting rod loads are compressive in normal operating conditions; however, an increased friction coefficient induces flexion load. Based on the connecting rod¡¯s microstructures, fracture surface characterisation and stress state estimation, it was concluded that the failure originated in a breakdown of connecting rod-crankshaft lubrication causing scuffing, severe wear and a high friction coe- fficient. Likewise, the results showed that when the friction coefficient increased to 0.4, then stress reached levels above those acceptable for the connecting rod material (molten aluminium-silicon alloy) being considered. Manufacture defects, pores and cracks increased stress concentration, thereby contributing to the mechanical element¡¯s failure %K connecting rod %K compressor %K lubrication %K wear %K friction coefficient %U https://revistas.unal.edu.co/index.php/ingeinv/article/view/15221