We investigate the early development of the squeeze flow for a finite amoun
t of fluid material between two infinite plates. Finite element simulations
are performed, and allow to capture complex features. In particular, we fo
cus on the development of temperature boundary layers as well as of viscoel
astic effects. Furthermore, we evaluate the required squeezing force when a
constant squeezing velocity is applied. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All
rights reserved.