Parametric study of laminated elastomeric bearing using FEM

Abstract

The structures are flexible and their structural stability should be provided under all conditions. The bearings are the key member that offers freedom of movement between the superstructure and the foundation while accommodating vertical loads and rotation. Based on the finite element software ANSYS19.2, the FE model for a reinforcement elastomeric bearing is developed. The design parameters of the bearing, including elastomer thickness, shape factor, steel thickness, b/h ratio and number of steel shims are examined, and numerical results are verified by results of the previous researches. In this study, for the specific elastomeric bearing, the effect of shape factor and the number and thickness of reinforcing plates on its compression and shear stiffness is studied by using ANSYS Mechanical APDL. Results show that the FE model is capable of predicting the vertical stiffness and size of bulging (horizontal movement).