The development of a three-dimensional finite element model for solid particle erosion on an alumina scale/MA956 substrate

Solid particle erosion is considered, using a 3D FE analysis. Incorporated, is adaptive meshing, facilitating strain-free adjustment of the FE mesh, reducing element distortion and allowing for an element removal technique to be utilised. Two failure models—a tensile failure model for the brittle scale and a shear failure model for the ductile substrate—are considered. The methodology permits calculation of parameters characterising the erosion process in terms of weight loss, crater depth and crack formation, as a function of time and impact angle for both scale and substrate. However, in the current study, the substrate did not suffer any failure.