Statistical model of strongly anisotropic rough surfaces for finite element contact analysis

The elastic model of anisotropic rough surfaces is considered by approximat ing the summits by elliptic paraboloids (vertical cross-sections are parabo las and horizontal cross-sections are ellipses). The complete description o f anisotropic random surfaces is restricted here to strongly rough surfaces ; for such surfaces the summits are represented by highly ecctentric ellipt ic paraboloids having their semi-major axes oriented in the direction of th e grain. The statistical description of random, strongly anisotropic Gaussi an surfaces based on the model of Bush et al. [5] is adopted. To calculate the forces and contact area for the single asperity in the elastic range th e solution of Hertz is used. For modelling of the discontinuity at the cont act surface a quadratic 18-node zero thickness interface element interactin g with a transient 21-node hexahedral finite element is used. A beam of rec tangular cross-section lying with one of its longitudinal narrow faces agai nst flat rigid base is selected to demonstrate applicability of the method proposed. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.