Fatigue Life Analysis Software

February 1, 2016

Ryan Gehm

Colored contours showing operating temperature inside a bushing operating under dynamic load, computed using Endurica CL’s self-heating capabilities.

Cross section of a truck tire, colored according to the computed fatigue life for the case of straight-ahead rolling under a modest overload condition. Results were computed using Endurica CL’s new feature for analysis of rolling structures. (Click arrow at top right to view additional image.)

Endurica LLC announced the release of version 2.32 of its fatigue life analysis software Endurica CL, a computer simulation that can model the development of damage in an elastomeric part operating under complex service conditions. The release includes new features for calculating self-heating, for analyzing rolling structures (e.g., tires and rubber rollers), and for diagnosing cavitation and wrinkling conditions that might occur during loading cycles. The new features, which are provided at no additional cost under the existing license, enhance the software’s library of elastomer-specialized analysis capabilities. Starting from results computed in a standard FEA of the part in operation, Endurica CL computes the number of repeats of the simulated operation that can be endured before cracks develop. The calculation uses Critical Plane Analysis for accurately computing the effects of multiple simultaneous load inputs, Rainflow Counting for the effects of variable amplitude loading, and nonlinear material laws that effectively capture a range of elastomer behaviors (hyperelasticity, cyclic stress softening, strain crystallization, temperature dependence, ozone attack, etc.). Endurica CL accounts for the effects of finite straining and crack closure under compression. The material properties for the analysis are obtained from simple-to-use crack growth rate experiments.