A numerical method for real elastic contacts subjected to normal and tangential loading

Abstract

A numerical model has been developed for studies of the micro-slip phenomenon. Micro-slip is the local tangential displacements that appear in contacts subjected to normal and tangential loading. The model simulates three-dimensional elastic contacts between rough surfaces using Coulomb's law of friction as a condition for local sliding. The numerical solution uses small rectangular traction elements in which the tractions are assumed to be constant. General expressions for the surface displacements due to uniform tractions (in three directions) over such a rectangle are derived. The numerical results are compared with existing analytical theories for a smooth ball-plane contact. Simulation results for contacts between balls with rough surfaces and smooth planes are also presented. It is concluded that the surface roughness increases the tangential deformation compared with a smooth contact.