Tensionless contact of a finite circular plate

A general formulation is developed for the contact behavior of a finite circular plate with a tensionless elastic foundation. The gap distance between the plate and elastic foundation is incorporated as an important parameter. Unlike the previous models with zero gap distance and large/infinite plate radius, which assumes the lift-off/separation of a flexural plate from its supporting elastic foundation, this study shows that lift-off may not occur. The results show how the contact area varies with the plate radius, boundary conditions and gap distance. When the plate radius becomes large enough and the gap distance is reduced to zero, the converged contact radius close to the previous ones is obtained.