Mechanical models of conical assemblies

Purpose The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of conical frictional assembly and also provide an analytical model of the bond that enables the phenomena identified by a finite element model (FEM). Design/methodology/approach Finite element analysis (FEA) of the joint enables global and local behaviours to be simulated. Conical shrink-fit joints have particular dynamics that can be described by breaking them down into three phases. During the penetration phase, the connection is correctly made. During springback, the joint is freely stressed. During extraction, the joint is pulled to its limit, activating local sliding. Based on these observations, we develop an analytical model capable of describing the bonding behaviour without using FEM. Findings The elasticity of the material and the contact mechanisms have a strong influence on the dynamics of the joint. The analytical model shows that a disassembly force is always lower than an assembly force. In addition, the contact pressure along the interface is heterogeneously influenced by the geometry and changes significantly over the life cycle. The analytical model is capable of describing global phenomena that are observed by FEA even though they may be local at the surface. The qualitative and quantitative description of the model is in good agreement with the behaviour of the FEM. Originality/value This work brings detailed explanations of contact and deformation phenomena occurring on a conical bond, providing some key concepts to efficiently describe it. It also proposes a new macroscopic model, considering local effects, to describe this assembly type that can be used for several industrial applications.