Frictionless Contact Problem for a Functionally Graded Layer Loaded Through Two Rigid Punches Using Finite Element Method

ABSTRACTIn this study, continuous contact problem in the functionally graded (FG) layer loaded with two rigid flat blocks resting on the elastic semi-infinite plane was analyzed by the finite element method. The two-dimensional numerical model of the FG layer was made with the software added to the ANSYS program. This software can be adapted to all contact problem types by making minor changes. The accuracy check of the program was performed by comparing with the analytical solution of the problem by homogeneous layer and its solution by the finite element method. So, fast and practical solutions can be obtained by the developed finite element method on many applications such as; automotive, aviation and space industry applications. The comparisons made showed that the proposed solution gave good results at acceptable levels. In the problem, it was thought that all surfaces were frictionless. The external loads P and Q were transmitted to the FG layer via two flat rigid blocks. Normal stresses between the FG layer and the elastic plane, initial separation loads, initial separation distances and contact stresses under the blocks were investigated for various dimensionless quantities.