Characterization of the global deformation behaviour of engineering plastics rolls

In real service application of polymer rolls as rolling elements, the time-dependent deformation behaviour leads to a negative influence on the running smoothness after a long-lasting static load. By means of two polymeric materials (POM and PEEK) with different viscoelastic properties over a wide temperature range the influence of material properties on the running smoothness was investigated. A combination of static and dynamic tests as well as finite element simulations were performed. Observed differences in the behaviour of both materials in the service could be reflected well by this work. POM revealed creep flattening and a running performance which could be modelled well by viscoelastic material laws. By contrast, PEEK showed a different performance and its behaviour could not be represented adequately by viscoelastic material models.