Finite Element Analysis of an Involute Spline

Two finite element analyses of an involute spline are performed; one is axisymmetrically loaded and the other is nonaxisymmetrically loaded. An entire cross section of both an internal and external pair is analyzed for both models. It is shown that on the axisymmetrically loaded spline the highest stress experienced is the maximum compressive contact stress although the tensile stress in the shaft is also quite high. It is also shown that stress concentrations exist at the root and top of the tooth for both models. Furthermore, on the nonaxisymmetrically loaded spline at low torque, only a few teeth make initial contact, however, as torque is increased, more teeth come in contact. All the stresses remain relatively constant under increasing torque as more teeth are engaged. Once all teeth are in contact stress increases with higher torques. However, the maximum tensile stress (arising from stress concentrations) remains fairly constant, even at high torques, because the stress concentrations that occur at tooth roots appear to be relatively independent of the number of teeth in contact. [S1050-0472(00)00102-1]