Hertzian Contact Stress | Mechanical Engineering Interview | Skill-Lync Resources
Hard Strength of Materials Stress & Strain

How do you calculate Hertzian contact stresses between curved surfaces?

Answer

Hertzian theory gives contact stress between elastic bodies: for sphere-sphere contact, maximum pressure pmax = (3P)/(2πa²), where contact radius a = ∛(3PR/(4E*)). E* is equivalent modulus and R is equivalent radius. Maximum shear stress occurs below surface at 0.48a depth, explaining subsurface fatigue failures in bearings and gears. Contact area is elliptical for general curved surfaces.

Master These Concepts with IIT Certification
IIT Certified

Master These Concepts with IIT Certification

175+ hours of industry projects. Get placed at Bosch, Tata Motors, L&T and 500+ companies.

Relevant for Roles

Tribology Engineer Design Engineer CAE Analyst