Purpose: In this work, a finite element model of a solid tyre was constructed to simulate the loading condition. The solid tyre being modeled constitutes of three rubber layers with different properties and steel wires. Only hyperelastic property is considerd for the rubbers. The validation of FE prediction against experimental results was undertaken. An example of how arrangement of rubber layers in solid tyre can affect the distribution of strain energy density and deflection under loading was also carried out using FE analysis. Design/methodology/approach: A finite element model of a solid tyre was constructed to simulate the static compressive loading condition. The solid tyre being modeled constitutes of three types of rubber of components and steel wires Findings: The 3D FE model for static loading analysis of solid tyre constructed in this study can give reasonably good prediction of load-deflection behaviour of a real solid tyre. It can also be deduced that the distributions of analysis parameters such as strain energy density and Von Mises stress given by the FE analysis are acceptable and can be used to improve the design of solid tyres. The tyre made entirely with the rubber of the same hyperelastic property as the tread layer can give more flexible deformation and thus more comfortable ride with lesser risk to damage due to heat generation. Practical implications: Finite element analysis, as has been demonstrated, can be used to predict the performance of the solid tyre when such variations are made. The results from finite element anaysis can be used to determine the optimum thickness of each layer for green tyre (unvulcatised tyre) building. Originality/value: In the solid tyre manufacturing point of view, improving the load bearing performance by changing thickness of each solid tyre layer or make a variation in layers arrangement is the least problematic and can be done effectively without changing the mould or rubber compounds.
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