FEM optimization of a steel belt of OTR tyres

Abstract

This paper deals with an FEM simulation of a steel belt of tyres. A belt is a part of a tyre that plays a very important role in all radial tyres especially in case of heavy-duty off-the-road (OTR) ones. It is a composite composed of rubber material and a steel reinforcement. High peak stress inside this composite can initiate cracks, which subsequently lead to a complete tyre failure. In this work, the belt is extracted from the tyre and simulated separately in order to be able to cover individual cords. Belt behaviour under tension is studied and optimal cord distribution is proposed to decrease the risk of the failure. FEM software MSC Marc/Mentat is employed as a calculation tool. © 2020 Trans Tech Publications Ltd, Switzerland.