NAC Consultancy Pte Ltd

Types of FEA Application – Part 1 Linear Static Analysis

We are often asked on the type of applications that can be carried out on Finite Element

Analysis, this article will be a part of a series to explore the diverse range of that application.

For the first of this series, we will start with linear static analysis. A majority of our structural analysis inquiry can be studied with linear static analysis.

So what is Linear Static analysis?

The analysis involves two main assumptions:

• The structural behavior is linear. The analysis follows Hooke’s Law which states that the relationship between load and response (stress, deflection) is linear.
• The analysis is static, where loads and direction do not change with time. Loads increase are a slow gradual rate until the indicated load is achieved. Induce force such as inertial or damping are not considered.

There are of course more details about Linear and Static, but that will be for another article.

The following are some application that can be simulated with the FEA linear static analysis

Padeyes

The padeye is a common feature that can be located in most equipment that lifts or requires to be lifted.

With many variables such as lifting angle, out of plane loads and asymmetrical balance, FEA can help take care of that calculation

Steel Structure

For steel structure with multiple loads, beams and supports, it is often tedious to carry out any manual calculate and visualize how the load will transfer. Often time due to cost and size, it is impossible to have a prototype for testing.

With FEA, any high-stress areas can be pinpoint and additional structural support can be added to alleviate the load.

Crankshaft

Besides point load stress, linear static analysis can also be used for torque load. Rotary equipment such as a motor shaft, wind turbine, and pump impellers can be analyzed with torque loading.

Pressure Vessel

For any pressure containing vessel or tank, linear static analysis can be used to determine if the design, material, and thickness of the material are sufficient to handle the operational loads.

Phone Case

FEA simulation is regularly used in consumer good product before actual prototype and mass manufacturing begins. A phone case undergoes stress when the phone is inserted and will continuing to face constant stress due to interference fit and everyday use.

There are of course many other applications that can be carried out with linear static analysis.

Drop us an email at sales@nac.com.sg if you have anything you want us to look into.

Matt Goh Consultant NAC Consultancy Pte Ltd

Relevant article(s):
Introduction to Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
How accurate is Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Simulation?