№84-21
Analysis of modeling methods for interference fits in SolidWorks Simulation
A. Khrutskyi1, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9332-1748
A. Hromadskyi1, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9910-9983
Yu. Horbachov1, https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2676-9734
V. Hromadskyi1, https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4481-0956
Vik. Hromadskyi1 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3988-1453
1Kryvyi Rih National University, Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine
Coll.res.pap.nat.min.univ. 2026, 84:266–275
Full text (PDF)
https://doi.org/10.33271/crpnmu/84.266
ABSTRACT
Purpose. To calculate the stress–strain state of shaft–hub interference-fit joints and to perform a comparative analysis of different approaches to their modeling in SolidWorks Simulation in order to determine the most efficient method for engineering calculations.
The methods. Three approaches were applied: the Shrink Fit contact condition in an assembly; separate analysis of the components with pressure applied to the contact surface; and separate analysis using a radial displacement boundary condition (Reference Geometry). For each approach, finite element models with identical geometry, material properties, and interference values were created. The methods were compared in terms of stress and deformation distribution accuracy, physical consistency of the results, and computation time.
Findings. The Shrink Fit contact method provides the most physically adequate representation of the contact interaction and produces a correct stress distribution in the components. However, the computational complexity of the contact problem increases the simulation time by approximately 17–18 times compared with the other approaches. The pressure-based method enables fast calculations but results in an incorrect stress gradient in the near-surface region of the hub, which limits its applicability. The radial displacement method combines high computational efficiency (1–2 minutes per component) with a physically consistent stress and deformation distribution in both parts.
The originality. Relationships between accuracy, computational efficiency, and physical adequacy of different interference-fit modeling approaches were established. An incorrect stress distribution in the near-surface region when using the pressure-based method was also identified.
Practical implementation. The results make it possible to select the modeling method depending on the design stage: the radial displacement method is recommended for routine engineering calculations, while the Shrink Fit method is suitable for final validation of designs.
Keywords: interference fit, SolidWorks Simulation, stress–strain state, finite element method, contact interaction, joint modeling, deformation.
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date of first submission of the article to the publication – 01/14/2026
date of acceptance of the article for publication after review – 02/22/2026
date of publication – 03/30/2026