Numerical simulation of dynamic side impact test for an aluminium alloy wheel

A great number of wheel test are requited in designing and manufacturing of wheels to meet the safety requirements. The impact performance of wheel is a major concern of a new design. The test procedure has to comply with international standards, which establishes minimum mechanical requirements, evaluates axial curb and impact collision characteristics of wheels. Numerical implementation of impact test is essential to shorten the design time, enhance the mechanical performance and lower development cost. This study deals with the simulation of impact test for a cast aluminium alloy wheel by using 3-D explicit finite element methods. A numerical model of the wheel with its tire and striker were developed taking account of the nonlinearity material properties, large deformation and contact. Simulation was conducted to investigate the stress and displacement distributions during wheel impact test. The analyses results are presented as a function of time. The maximum value of the displacement and stress on the wheel and tire are shown. As a result, the use of explicit finite element method to predict the performance of new products design is replacing the use of physical test.