Print this page Basic Applied Finite Element Analysis
Robert B. Wilcox, P.E.
Course Outline
This course will cover the basics of linear static finite element analysis of a machine part to accurately determine stress distributions due to applied loads. It will focus on practical application and real-world issues related to finite element analysis, as opposed to theory. While just about any engineer can get a contour plot showing stresses, many do not understand the iterative nature of FEA and how to obtain meaningful results. This course will use a verifiable geometric example so the user can gain confidence in their ability to create and refine a mesh, loading, and boundary conditions which give accurate results. Students have the option to download a trial version of a popular FEA program and obtain hands-on experience of meshing, material property specification, load application, boundary condition application, solving, and interpretation of results. Symmetry modeling and convergence of results will also be covered.
- Prerequisites to Applying FEA
- Definitions
- Important Assumptions of Linear Static FEA
- Basic Analysis Types
- Model Symmetry
- Boundary Conditions
- Problem Solving Methodology
- Download and Install FEA Code and Example Files
- Plane Stress Model Problem: Plate With a Hole
- Structured Vs. Unstructured Meshes
- Convergence
- Structural Model Problem: Planar Truss
- CAD Modeling Considerations for FEA
- Von Mises Stress
- 3-D Solid Model
Example: Pressure Cylinder
The course includes
a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding
of the course materials.
Learning Objective
At the conclusion of this course, the student will:
- Understand the basic assumptions of Linear Static Finite Element Analysis (FEA);
- Appreciate the prerequisite skills required to apply FEA methods;
- Understand basic FEA terminology;
- Learn some basic element types;
- Learn the difference between H-elements and P-elements;
- Be familiar with some of the limitations of Linear Static FEA;
- Comprehend considerations of the solid or planar CAD model relevant to the FEA model;
- Understand how to create a basic mesh;
- Be able to run a basic FEA analysis;
- Be familiar with mesh refinement;
- Understand plane stress models;
- Understand plane strain models;
- Have learned about symmetry models and boundary conditions;
- Understand axisymmetric models and boundary conditions;
- Be able to apply material properties to the model;
- Understand basic boundary conditions;
- Understand symmetry model boundary conditions;
- Understand application of loads to the model;
- Understand the concept of convergence;
- Understand element quality Issues;
- Know the difference between a structured and unstructured mesh;
- Interpret displacement and stress results;
- Understand the importance of manual checks on model results; and
- Understand von
Mises Stress.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for mechanical and structural engineers and designers.
Benefit to Attendees
The attendee will
obtain some experience-guided insight into modeling methods, pitfalls, and how
to attain meaningful result from the FEA, particularly in the areas of mesh
validity and convergence - two highly overlooked areas for newer users of FEA.
Course
Introduction
Finite Element Analysis is a powerful tool for the mechanical or structural engineer, but it is easily misapplied, and results can easily by incorrect or misinterpreted by the uninitiated. Rather than focus on the mathematical theory behind FEA, this course will look at how to practically set up the model and get meaningful results. The focus will is on correct loads and boundary conditions, good meshes, convergence of results, and correct interpretation of results. The attendee will be downloading and installing a demo FEA program, and going through the steps of modeling using the program.
Course Content The
course content is in a PDF file (830 KB) Basic
Applied Finite Element Analysis.
You may need to download the following FEM Demo Softwasre and sampel files:
Please click on the above underlined hypertext to view, download or print the document for your study. Because of the large file size, we recommend that you first save the file to your computer by right clicking the mouse and choosing "Save Target As ...", and then open the file in Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you still experience any difficulty in downloading or opening this file, you may need to close some applications or reboot your computer to free up some memory.
Course Summary
FEA can give good results and save much time and expense in development in testing provided that models are set up, run and interpreted correctly. A good understanding of model symmetry, constraints and loading, and mesh quality contribute to an accurate model. Through convergence, precision evaluation and element quality, the analyst can be confident of the accuracy of the results.
Related Links
For additional technical information related to this subject, please visit the following websites or web pages:
Engineering
Tips Finite Element Analysis Forum
NAFEMS
MATweb - Material Property Data
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
