Model for Deformation, Stress and Contact at Interfaces — Implications for Ultrasonic Measurements

Abstract

An analytical model is presented for calculating deformation, contact area, stiffness, and the distribution of stress across joints and interfaces that can be described as two rough surfaces in partial contact. Analytical, modeling, and experimental results are presented that demonstrate the role that deformation of the bulk material surrounding the joint and mechanical interaction between contact points play in joint properties and the propagation of acoustic waves across the interface. Results are applied to help interpret C‐scans of spot‐welded joints.