Crack simulation in pneumatic tyres using the finite element method

The study is concerned with the durability problem of pneumatic tyres, in particular the simulation of belt edge separation. The finite element method and fracture mechanics concepts are combined to study the initiation and growth of a rectangular crack at the belt edge. Implicit steady state formulation of rolling and the global-local modelling technique are used in the analysis. J-integral is calculated as part of the fatigue crack growth in the circumferential and meridional directions. The reliability and accuracy of J-integral calculations for crack models with sharp corners is studied by comparing the results with smoother crack models as well as more robust methods of calculating energy release rate.