The Stress Field Generated in an Elastic Layer by Normally Loaded, Periodically Spaced Circular Contacts

Abstract

The stress field generated in an elastic layer by normally loaded, periodically spaced circular contacts is analyzed. It is intended that this model represent a pair of rough, plated contact surfaces whose plating is much more compliant than the substrate material. The effect of plating thickness and spacing of load-bearing asperities upon the state of stress within the layer is studied. It is shown that there exist values of layer thickness and contact-spot spacing such that the octahedral shear stress within the layer is maximized. Further, for very thin layers, the maximum octahedral shear occurs at the surface of the layer as in tangentially loaded contacts.