FEM and mathematical models of the interfacial contact behaviour of CFRP-metal couples

Finite element and mathematical analyses were conducted to investigate the contact pressure distribution on CFRP rod surfaces in a system consisting of CFRP rod, contacting sleeve, and metal plate. Sleeve material and hardness in addition to the coefficient of friction effects on the stress distribution were investigated. It was found that the most noticeable effect was due to the coefficient of friction. Frictionless surfaces implementation resulted in higher contact pressure. In the longitudinal direction of the rod, higher contact pressure was at the plate end. The results of finite element analysis were in a good agreement with the mathematical model when frictionless surfaces and steel were used for modeling the system.