Incompressibility and mesh sensitivity analysis in finite element simulation of rubbers

Non-linear finite element calculations are indispensable when important information of the material response under load of a rubber component is desired. Although the material characterization of a rubber component is a demanding engineering task, the changing contact range between the parts and the incompressibility behaviour of the rubber further increase the complexity of the investigations. In this paper the effects of the choice of the numerical material parameters (e.g. bulk modulus) are examined with regard to numerical stability, mesh density and calculation accuracy. As an example, a rubber spring is chosen where contact problem is also handled.