Project

Finite Element Analysis

Static Linear and Non-Linear Structural Analyses.

Static structural analyses permit the prediction of deflection, temperature, strain and stress distributions within a component / assembly. This is the most common analysis performed for verification / validation but does not mean that they are always simple in nature. These have evolved to include complex interactions within the analysis (contacts, joints, composites) to linking with other physics (fluid-structure, electromagnetic-structure).

Dynamic Linear and Non-Linear Structural Analysis

Dynamic analysis allows the user to account for the time dependent characteristics of their structure. For linear dynamics, the initial effort is often to determine the natural frequencies through a modal analysis. Results are then utilized in a harmonic, shock, seismic, random vibration or transient simulation to determine deflections, stresses and strains. For nonlinear dynamics, a direct transient simulation can be performed.

Kinematic Analysis

A kinematic analysis is often considered when the motion or displacement of an assembly is
dominated by the joints within the system. A kinematic analysis is considered rigid when
deflections are totally characterized by the joints, or can be flexible, when the stiffness of the
moving parts is taken into consideration.

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code

FEA simulations are used extensively to show compliance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure vessel code. The advanced thermal and structural capabilities permit a high level of physics to be applied, generating confidence in results. For many systems, obtaining the accurate heat flow / temperature distribution is critical. FEA combined fluid /thermal / structural capabilities facilitate the simulation of complex systems.

Composites

Composite simulations add an extra degree of complexity over other simulations. One can utilize
dynamics, advanced non-linear capabilities and thermal, combined with additional factors of ply
orientation, fibre/resin properties, draping, curing stresses, degradation fields, progressive
failure and complex failure criteria. Our expertise facilitates the generation and subsequent post
processing of model

Thermal Analysis – Thermal Stress

Accurate prediction of temperature distributions is critical to performing a thermal stress analysis. Forces generated by thermal expansion can be significant and proper analysis techniques need to be implemented. With our FEA expertise capabilities in conduction, convection, radiation, temperature dependent material models, and internal heat generation

Durability and Fatigue – Failure Analysis

Component failures are often not due to a single event, but due to accumulative damage caused
by a series of events. The typical fatigue process is to maintain stress / strain levels below the
allowable for the required number of cycles. Multiple loads often occur and will have a different
cycle requirement. Our fatigue expertise with more advanced tools can predict the component
life. An alternative approach is to understand that a crack exists in the component. The crack is
analyzed to determine whether it will propagate, and if so, at what rate