FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF CYLINDRICAL SURFACE CONTACT

Abstract

The two most common methods for solving contact problems using the finite element method are the Lagrange multiplier method and the penalty method. The Lagrange multiplier method treats contact forces as independent variables (Lagrange multipliers), and the contact non-penetration conditions are exactly satisfied. The penalty method satisfies contact conditions using penalty parameters, and the contact non-penetration conditions are approximately satisfied. The aim of this study is a comparative analysis of contact mechanics which is conducted using the finite element method (FEM). The penalty method is used for contact problem-solving. The primary objective is to evaluate the differences in results and computational efficiency between the two types of finite elements used and to determine the influence of the finite element mesh size on results.