A coupled finite element and meshfree analysis of erosive wear

Erosive wear is a kind of material degradation, which is largely involved in many industries, and caused a series of serious problems and economic loss. Many theoretical models and numerical models have been established to study the erosion phenomena. In this study, a coupled finite element and meshfree model was developed for the simulation and prediction of erosive wear. By utilizing the meshfree technique, the error due to mesh distortion and tangling at impacted area in the finite element analysis could be effectively avoided. The fundamental mechanisms of erosion by solid particle impact were investigated as well. Comparison against the results of analytical erosion models and finite element model are made. It is shown that the predicted results are in agreement with reported results. The present study could be very useful and efficient in studying erosive wear.