A numerical model for the evaluation of fretting fatigue crack initiation in rough point contact

A numerical model for the evaluation of fretting fatigue crack initiation for a rough contact was developed. The macro-geometry is based on a sphere-on-plane contact which can be modulated with arbitrary micro-geometry. Tangential traction and simple elastic-perfectly plastic deformation were included in the model. The model is based on the Boussinesq equations and the multi-axial Dang Van fatigue criterion. This study focused on the trends of cracking risk behaviour. The calculated results show that elastic rough surfaces involve a considerably higher cracking risk, especially in the surface, than ideally smooth surfaces. The effect of amplitude and wavelength of surface waviness on cracking risk is presented and discussed. Experimental results are needed for the final interpretation and confirmation of the results.