FEA - Finite Element Analysis Technology: Examples

FEA Paper #1 demonstrates the difficulties one can run into when doing Finite Element Analysis in general and Eigenvalue Analysis in particular. The paper contains references to related articles published in the Benchmark Magazine; http://www.nafems.org/publications/benchmark.html

It is shown that, even with a quality FE program like ANSYS, the eigenforms can vary substantially with the element mesh. It is pointed out that the making a module that generates proper meshes for eigenvalue analysis based on CAD geometries might be very difficult. It is also discussed whether a norm for guiding the convergence of eigenforms can be established.
To contact the author by mail please, click here.

Paper #2 deals with Thermal and Structural non-linear analysis of a beam subject to fire and problems in obtaining meaningful load data and temperature dependent material properties.
Load specifications were according to NS 3491-2:2003 from Norges Standardiseringsforbund with the ISO 834 curve defining the driving temperature. The steel in the beam was DOMEX 640XP from SSAB Tunnplåt AB. This steel has very desirable properties with respect to thermal loading; unfortunately, no material properties are given for higher temperatures. A good source for steel properties is SEW310 from Verlag Stahleisen GmbH, however, the temperature range for most steels mentioned in SEW310 end at 900 [K]. MMPDS from

US Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration has specifications for steels and other materials in the required temperature range, but unfortunately not for the steel at hand. The software utilized for the simulations was ANSYS Rel. 6.0.
To contact the author by mail please, click here.