Evaluation of the Real Contact Area of Rough Surfaces by Using a Finite Element Model

Abstract

The purpose of this research was the analysis and the evaluation of the real contact area (RCA) of 15 rough samples with different mechanical properties. The investigation was carried out by the realization of a FEM model which simulates the contact between a rough deformable surface and rigid smooth sapphire plane. The roughness of the rough plane was modelled as a series of hemispheres of different radius which represent the asperities. Adhesion and asperities interaction were not considered and the peaks were distributed according to a Gaussian function. All the results, in terms of total area, load, pressure, deformation, were compared with the values calculated by two classical contact statistical models.