Validation of an elastomeric bearing characterized with finite element hyperelastic models

Abstract

Elastomeric bearing is a crucial element of a structure. To study these elements' behavior under different loads, a correct strain energy function should be selected to predict the nonlinear hyperelastic behavior accurately. Physical compression test performed on a sample of a steel laminated elastomeric bearing, which is originally used on structure foundation to resist seismic forces. A finite element software was used to simulate physical test for seven different hyperelastic models. Error percentages were also calculated and compared between all models with the experimental data. The results of these seven models were validated in order to select the most fitted form. Multiple models gave an accurate prediction of this element behavior. Reduced Polynomial form was the best choice to model compression tests and the finite element simulation showed an accurate prediction for bearing behavior, the model curve is perfectly fitted with the physical test curve and the maximum error percentage was less than 7% and less than 2% minimum error.