Abstract

A three‐dimensional (3D) beam finite element model was developed to investigate the torsional stiffness of a twisted steel‐reinforced cord‐rubber belt structure. The present 3D beam element takes into account the coupled extension, bending, and twisting deformations characteristic of the complex behavior of cord‐rubber composite structures. The extension‐twisting coupling due to the twisted nature of the cords was also considered in the finite element model. The results of torsional stiffness obtained from the finite element analysis for twisted cords and the two‐ply steel cord‐rubber belt structure are compared to the experimental data and other alternate solutions available in the literature. The effects of cord orientation, anisotropy, and rubber core surrounding the twisted cords on the torsional stiffness properties are presented and discussed.