Finite Element Analysis
What is Stress? Stress is the presence
of an imbedded or an induced “force” acting on the faces of a cube element
of material having an X,Y,Z dimensions and which causes change in the shape
of the cube connected to the neighboring elements. If increased, the induced
force will result in the separation and final disassociation or “freedom”
of the entities from unity, due to large displacement, also known as the
“point of failure”. For the simple purpose of designing structures that
will last for the longest period of Association, Design Engineers, use
Finite Element Analysis to visualizing the limits and effect of known external
forces acting on a physical member that is made of many similar elements
in order to prevent their point of failure or disassociation from unity.
Typically stress is measured in unit of force per unit of area with a common
unit of measurement in pound per square inch (PSI) or in Pascal, or Newton
per meter-square (1 Pa=1 N/M^2). This analysis can be conducted further
on elemental features of a part or on a group of parts comprising an assembly
or a system of interconnected members.
What is Elemental Displacement? Displacement is the onset of the presence of change due to induced loads and stress. With buildup of stress, elements change shape in their X,Y,Z directions. Displacement increases and decreases with the rise and fall of induced loads. Depending on the accurate modeling and directional strength of each element, members and an assembled system in interconnectedness with its surroundings, there come a point where displacements at elemental level reaches a point of physical separation beyond the ultimate strength of the material that will initiate failure.
What are examples of induced Forces? Like any observed element in nature, elements of an engineered structure are also subject to induced external and internal forces. Weight, pressure, differential temperature, vibration, electromagnetic forces are some examples of the sources of induced forces which cause change, stress and displacement in material.
A Simplified Example of Finite Element Analysis is, Linear or Non-Linear Analysis in a Metallic Seal
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Applied Load |
Applied Pressure & Temperature |
Fixed Edge |
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Analysis |
Stress Distribution |
Displacement Distribution |