The effect analysis of the finite element approximation order on the protective polymer layer contact deformation

Abstract

Problems implementation using the finite element method (FEM) is primarily associated with the proper selection of approximation order of the shape functions, material behavior models, the coupling nature analysis and the implementation techniques choice. The choice of numerical solution parameters affects the computational procedures. The paper solves problem of the FEM parameters selection and its realization methods in order to achieve a reasonable balance between the counting time and the solution quality. Simplex elements have shape functions with linear dependences on the coordinates. The FEM implementation with the use of simplex elements has proven itself during the last decades. However, one can note the description inaccuracy of curvilinear boundaries of research objects, which can introduce additional inaccuracies in the problem numerical solution. Second-order elements will allow describing curvilinear boundaries, but require a large expenditure of computational power especially for nonlinear mechanics problems. The development of numerical application software packages allows us to evaluate the influence of the FEM approximation degree on the problem solution with the use of grid methods and computer resources at the present time. The paper found that an increase in the numerical solution error is observed at the point of initial steel - polymer contact. The study considers the elements of order 1 and 2 to analyze the influence of the FEM approximation order on the problem numerical solution. The study is carried out within the framework of the classical Hertz problem. In addition the paper investigate obtained solutions for modeling different characters of contact surface coupling for the problem of contact between a spherical die and a steel half-space through a protective polymer coating 4 mm to 12 mm thick. The study reveal that the elements order has the least influence on the problem solution at ideal contact and the greatest one at frictional contact.