Simplified Analytical Solution of the Contact Problem on Indentation of a Coated Half-Space by a Conical Punch

The contact problem on indentation of an elastic coated half-space by a conical punch is considered. To obtain an explicit analytical solution suitable for applications, the bilateral asymptotic method is used in a simplified form. For that purpose, kernel transform of the integral equation is approximated by a ratio of two quadratic functions containing only one parameter. Such an approach allows us to obtain explicit analytical expressions for the distribution of contact stresses and relations between the indentation force, depth, stiffness and contact radius. The obtained solution is suitable both for homogeneous and functionally graded coatings. The dependence of the characteristics of contact interaction on a relative Young's modulus of the coating and relative coating thickness is analyzed and illustrated by the numerical examples. Ranges of values of elastic and geometrical parameters are obtained, for which the presence of a coating sufficiently changes the contact characteristics. The accuracy of the obtained simplified expressions is studied in detail. Results of the paper sufficiently simplify engineering calculations and are suitable for inverse analysis, e.g., analysis of indentation experiments of coated materials using either a conical or a pyramidal (Berkovich) indenter.