The Line Contact Between Two Cylinders—Some Experiments and Theoretical Predictions

Experiments are presented in which various combinations of two (almost) straight cylinders with circular cross-section are pressed together while their axes remain basically parallel. Results are compared with theoretical predictions from a half space model; from this half space model extended with adjustments for the finite dimensions of the cylinders in contact; and from an infinite cylinder model from literature. Frictional effects are not considered and the material is assumed to be linear-elastic. Agreement in the approach of the center lines of the cylinders under load is found to exist more or less between the experimental results and the theoretical predictions by the models. The behaviour of the models is discussed, and reasonable to good agreement is demonstrated for the extended half space model using an integral depth adjustment of 3/4 of the diameter of each cylinder in contact. A possible way to further improve this model is indicated.