Numerical analysis of crack nucleation in contact mechanics under fretting wear loading

Baltach A., Benhamena A., Chaouch M. I., Zagane M. E., YAYLACI M., ÖZTÜRK Ş., ...More

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING AND MECHANICS, vol.94, no.3, pp.231-238, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 94 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.12989/sem.2025.94.3.231
  • Journal Name: STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING AND MECHANICS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex
  • Page Numbers: pp.231-238
  • Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study examines how contact pressure and shear stress act on contact areas subjected to fretting loading. The research utilizes a non-linear finite element method, which calculates both normal and shear stresses, to assess the fracture behavior of flat surfaces. The study particularly emphasizes the influence of shear forces on the distribution of these stresses. A multiaxial fatigue criterion is used to identify potential crack initiation points within the contact zone. The critical point for crack initiation along the contact line is determined by evaluating the maximum values of hydrostatic and deviatoric stresses. The size of the regions experiencing sticking and slipping behavior is directly related to the levels of contact pressure and shear force. Importantly, the study found a strong agreement between the finite element method simulations and the analytical results.