A concise finite element model for simple straight wire rope strand

• Published in: International journal of mechanical sciences Vol. 41; no. 2; pp. 143 - 161
• Main Authors: Jiang, W.G., Yao, M.S., Walton, J.M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.02.1999; Elsevier
• Subjects: Bending (deformation); Computational techniques; contact stress; Exact sciences and technology; Finite element method; finite element model; Finite-element and galerkin methods; Friction; Fundamental areas of phenomenology (including applications); Load testing; Mathematical methods in physics; Mathematical models; Physics; Plastic deformation; residual stress; Solid mechanics; Static elasticity; Static elasticity (thermoelasticity...); strand; Stress analysis; Stress concentration; Structural and continuum mechanics; Tensile testing; Torsional stress; wire rope; residual stress; strand; finite element model; wire rope; contact stress; Finite element method; Stress analysis; Contact stress; Wire rope; Numerical method; Non linear effect; Strand; Residual stress
• ISSN: 0020-7403; 1879-2162
• DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7403(98)00039-3

Due to its complex geometry, a wire in a rope is subjected to the combined effects of tension, shear, bending, torsion, contact, friction and possible local plastic yielding when loaded. In this paper an accurate and general strand model using the finite element method (FEM) is presented. The model is capable of taking into account all the above effects and has been successfully used to predict the global behaviour of simple straight wire rope strand as well as the stress distribution within the wires under axial loads (tensile and torsional). In simplifying the finite element model, precise boundary conditions were developed. The finite element analysis results showed excellent agreement with the analytical theory of Costello and the experimental results of Utting and Jones. By using the model developed in this paper, localised highly non-linear phenomena such as contact stress, residual stress, friction and plastic deformation can be studied effectively.