Multi-layer model for moving contact problems of functionally graded coatings with general variations in physical properties

This paper presents a multi-layer model for moving contact problems of functionally graded coatings whose physical properties have general spatial variations. The coating is assumed to be composed of an arbitrary number of layers and perfectly bonded to an elastic substrate. Wave equations for the layers and the substrate are derived in accordance with the plane theory of elastodynamics. The equations are solved by the application of Galilean and Fourier transformations. Flat and triangular punch profiles are considered, and the formulation is reduced to a singular integral equation of the second kind in both cases. The integral equations are solved by means of Jacobi expansion and collocation techniques. Proposed procedures are verified through comparisons to the results available for a special case in the literature. Parametric analyses are carried out for functionally graded coatings possessing ceramic-rich, metal-rich, and linear profiles. The results presented demonstrate the influences of factors such as punch speed, coefficient of friction, material property variation profile, and contact-length-to-thickness ratio on contact stresses, punch stress intensity factors, and required contact force. It is shown that the multi-layer model is required to account for general property distributions in a functionally graded coating subject to moving contact.