Case Study 03

Fatigue Analysis of 6061-T6 Alloy Frame

Optimization of steel bearings for urban cargo bicycle

Project

Design and structural validation of a front-loading cargo bicycle frame, manufactured in 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, with a precision steel bearing system in the headset and bottom bracket.

Approach

Parametric three-dimensional mechanical modeling and finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate fatigue resistance under cyclic loads of up to 150 kg gross weight. An analytical tablet was used for field data collection and deformation validation.

Implementation

Generation of hexahedral mesh in critical areas (welded joints and bearing supports). Simulation of 10,000 maximum load cycles with a safety factor of 1.8. Adjustment of wall thicknesses in the top tube to reduce stress concentration.

Result

22% reduction in total frame mass compared to the initial design, maintaining an estimated service life exceeding 50,000 km. A detailed industrial manufacturing budget was obtained for a batch of 500 units, with a unit cost reduced by 15%.

Supporting Materials
  • • 3D technical drawing of the optimized frame (STEP format)
  • • Fatigue analysis report with stress-strain graphs
  • • Specification sheet for 6202-2RS steel bearings
  • • Manufacturing budget broken down by process (cutting, welding, heat treatment)
Key Technical Data
Material Aluminum 6061-T6
Bearings Steel 52100, ABEC-5 grade
Maximum load 150 kg
Safety factor 1.8
Estimated service life > 50,000 km

Our History

Milestones that defined the course of precision engineering in sustainable mobility.

2018
Foundation

We were born with the vision of transforming urban mobility through the industrial design of ultralight mechanical frames. The first cargo bicycle prototype was modeled in a workshop in Barahona.

2020
First Patent

We registered our first precision component patent: a high-strength steel bearing for drive shafts. This milestone consolidated our reputation in mechanical engineering.

2022
Academic Expansion

We launched the first virtual course on high-end metallic material resistance, combining 3D modeling with structural analysis. Over 500 engineers were trained in the first year.

2023
Quotation Platform

We developed a digital tool for industrial manufacturing budgets, integrating material costs and machining processes. We reduced quotation times by 60%.

2024
Strategic Alliance

We signed an agreement with the Institute of Sustainable Mobility to standardize electric bicycle components. Our three-dimensional technical drawings became an industry reference.

2025
Global Recognition

We were awarded the Latin American Industrial Design Prize for our modular frame system. Today, we export plans and technical consulting to 12 countries.

Cookie Notice

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of all cookies. You can customize your settings or reject non-essential cookies.

ES EN