Mechanical and Thermal Analysis of a Rocker Arm Shaft Support Based on Finite Element Method

Abstract The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a powerful numerical technique for solving complex physical problems involving differential equations and partial derivatives. This study presents the mechanical and thermal analysis of a rocker arm shaft support using FEM. Employing the ADINA (Automatic Dynamic Incremental Nonlinear Analysis) software, the behavior of the shaft support has been modelled, leveraging ADINA’s extensive material libraries, diverse loading conditions, and customizable behavioral properties. The analysis focuses on determining deformations, stresses, and displacements, particularly in the median plane section at the point of maximum stress. Both treated and untreated material conditions are evaluated to assess stress transmission in the transition zone between surface-hardened and base materials. A 2D analysis is conducted, given the geometry of the rocker arm spindle support, to ensure fidelity to real structural behavior while optimizing computational efficiency. The validated model provides insights into design constraints for new materials, supporting industrial applications.