Finite element analysis of Herzt contact problem with friction (Q1086056)

A new finite element method of solution for the design and analysis of frictional contact problems is presented. The nonlinear problem is solved by imposing geometric constraints on the pseudo equilibrium configuration, defined as a configuration at which the compatibility conditions are violated. The compatibility conditions are satisfied through a load step applied to the pseudo-equilibrium configuration. The contact conditions of sticking, slipping, rolling or tension release is determined from the relative magnitudes of the normal and tangential global nodal forces. The classical Hertz contact problem is analyzed with and without friction between the contacting bodies and good agreement is found between the analytical and the numerical solutions.