Estimation of contact stiffness at interfaces in machine structures by a beam model on an elastic foundation

The dynamic properties of machine structures are significantly influenced by an interaction at the mating surfaces of machine elements. This interaction is called contact stiffness, and the development of a simple method for contact stiffness estimation is an important tribological objective. In this paper the contact stiffness is estimated by a beam model vibrating on an elastic foundation. The effects of clamping condition and mating surface topography on the contact stiffness obtained are quantitatively and accurately represented by experimental equations.