Are there rules of thumb for FEA? How is FEA used in industry?

In summary, FEA, or Finite Element Analysis, is a widely used tool in engineering design in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. It allows for virtual testing and optimization of complex structures and systems. While there are thumb rules and best practices for using FEA, they may vary depending on the industry and application. To gain a better understanding of FEA in industry, one can read case studies, attend conferences, and utilize online resources.
  • #1
RKD89
78
1
Hi Everyone

I have been working on FEA for past 2 years. However my work has always been academic ( either assignments or validating certain experiments). I have never been exposed to any industry work in FEA.

I am curious on how FEA is used in the industry ( specially in engineering designs ).

Also , are there any thumb rules for FEA. There are some thumb rules on FEA. But what about the physics/mechanics of the problem ?

Can you guys please share your thoughts, experience or any weblinks/books ?

I just found only one book ( through google books ) which unfortunately isn't available in my librabry.

I just want to be exposed to how FEA is used in the industry.

Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2


Hello there,

As a scientist with experience in FEA, I can offer some insights into its use in industry. FEA, or Finite Element Analysis, is a powerful tool used in engineering design to simulate and analyze the behavior of complex structures and systems. It is widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction, among others.

One of the main uses of FEA in industry is in the design process. By creating a virtual model of a structure or system, engineers can test its performance under different conditions and make adjustments before physically building it. This not only saves time and money, but also allows for better optimization and improved safety.

In terms of thumb rules, there are certain guidelines and best practices that engineers follow when using FEA, such as ensuring mesh quality and convergence, validating results with physical testing, and considering all relevant physics and mechanics in the problem. However, the specific rules may vary depending on the industry and application.

To gain a better understanding of FEA in industry, I recommend reading case studies and white papers from companies that use FEA, attending conferences or workshops, and networking with professionals in the field. Additionally, there are many online resources, such as webinars and tutorials, that can provide valuable insights and practical knowledge.

I hope this helps in your quest to learn more about FEA in industry. Best of luck in your research!
 

1. What is FEA and how is it used in industry?

FEA stands for Finite Element Analysis, which is a numerical method used to solve complex engineering problems. It involves dividing a complex structure or system into smaller, simpler elements, and using mathematical equations to analyze the behavior and performance of the structure under different conditions. FEA is widely used in the industry to design and optimize structures, predict their response to external forces, and make informed decisions about their design and performance.

2. What are the benefits of using FEA in industry?

FEA offers several benefits in the industry, including faster design iterations, cost-effectiveness, and improved accuracy. It allows engineers to test and evaluate different design options without having to build physical prototypes, saving time and money. Additionally, FEA provides more precise and detailed results compared to traditional methods, allowing for more informed design decisions.

3. Are there any rules of thumb for using FEA in industry?

While there are no specific rules of thumb for using FEA, there are some best practices that can help ensure accurate and reliable results. These include creating a well-defined model, using appropriate element types and mesh density, and performing validation and verification of the results. It is also essential to have a good understanding of the underlying physics and assumptions of the analysis.

4. Can FEA be used for all types of engineering problems?

FEA can be used for a wide range of engineering problems, including structural, thermal, fluid flow, and electromagnetic analysis. However, it is essential to have a good understanding of the limitations and assumptions of the FEA software being used to ensure accurate results. Some complex problems may require specialized FEA software or additional tools to supplement the analysis.

5. Is FEA only used in the design phase of a project?

No, FEA can be used throughout the entire lifecycle of a project. It is commonly used in the design phase to optimize and validate designs, but it can also be used for troubleshooting and failure analysis of existing structures. FEA is also useful for predicting the performance and behavior of a structure over time, making it a valuable tool for maintenance and repair planning.

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