The stiffening ribs on the
axle housing serve a major structural function, bracing and supporting the main cylinder
against bending stresses.
As
originally designed, the ribs were triangular, straight and relatively thin. The rib
thickness was limited by the need for washer and wrench clearance for the mounting bolts,
as shown..
With the design flexibility in casting,
the designer can reshape the stiffening ribs to accommodate complex geometries and improve
the strength and stiffness. |
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