Calculation Approaches for Determining the Sliding Friction Coefficient – Analytical Consideration and FE-Modelling

Abstract

Microstructures on polymer surfaces are known to reduce friction and thevisibility of scratches. Due to the complex interaction of multiple surface areas in contactwith each other the prediction of coefficient of friction (COF) or wear is difficult and dependson an empirical solution. This article deals with possibilities of calculating the deformingpart of friction via an analytical solution and a FE-model. In a first step the modelling ofsingle contacts is demonstrated. The analytical calculation based on the Hertzian contactequations is extended regarding viscoelastic material parameters. The basic approach ofFE-modelling is explained including calibration of the material model using the softwareMCalibration®. The article introduces the different procedures of simulating and modellingCOF and wear taking into account the area of contact and resulting stress distribution.

Experimental verification of analytical calculation approaches and FEM material models with the aim of determining friction of thermoplastics

“…The basic idea of calculating friction is described in [1] in detail. In summary, the calculation is based on Hertzian contact equations, which allow conclusions to be drawn about the real contact area by knowing the deformative part of friction.…”

“…In order to make friction and wear predictable, the material deformations must first be calculated. The basic approaches for the calculation were described in [1]. Building on this, this article describes the comparison of initial test results with the previously defined calculation approaches.…”

“…With regard to the analytical model, the calculation approaches from [1] are adapted for the special case of a sphere in contact with a cylindrical groove and compared with lubricated friction experiments.…”