Numerical Modeling and Experimental Investigation of Thermal Shrinkage in Polymeric Cords. II: Numerical Implementation

ABSTRACT In this Part II of a two-part paper, a way of modeling axisymmetric rebars to represent the thermal shrinkage of polymeric cords within a thermo-mechanically coupled algorithm is presented without the assumption of a smeared layer. The mechanical characteristics of the proposed approach are compared to the classical approach using only one four-node axisymmetric element with unit dimensions. In addition, the shrinkage behavior of a simplified model made only of plies is discussed. The deformation behavior of polymeric cords during the tire manufacturing process, from the in-molding where a tire is formed by a mold under high pressure and temperature to curing and cooling, is addressed. Finally, the predicted profiles with and without post-cure inflation are compared to the test results.