Author(s)

S.J. Jerrams & S.J. Harvey

Abstract

The confidence given to linear and nonlinear finite element analyses of metal components is unfortunately lacking for similar analyses of elastomers. A conventional Hookean material can be modelled in some standard test for which a classical solution exists. There are no such solutions for rubber compounds. Different structures and filler contents mean that certain rubbers are reasonably well represented by one of the phenomenological material models, whilst others are characterised by an alternative. Software suppliers do not provide a data-base of material properties for rubbers, nor should they be expected to. There is no agreed method for determining material constants; no definitive statement on the strain range required, f

Keywords