Nonlinear elasticity of rectangular elastomeric seals and its effect on elastohydrodynamic numerical analysis

Elastomeric seals used in hydraulic systems obey complex stress-strain laws at high sealed pressure and large temperature differentials. For elastohydrodynamic numerical analysis, it is important that the rubber behavior under stress is analyzed with a suitable stress-strain model. A nonlinear model has been developed here and tested to produce numerical results for seal performance. The nonlinear model is then compared with the classic Hookean model of linear elasticity, to establish the differences between the models, and the limits of applicability and validity of each for a wide range of operating conditions.