Plastic limit analysis of a statically indeterminate beam

A structure can become unstable when a load reaches its buckling value or when nonlinear material becomes unstable. It is possible to observe the full response of a structure under proportional (ramped) loads using elastic-plastic analysis in ANSYS, so the plastic limit load and the location of plastic hinges can be determined.  In this post, … Continue reading Plastic limit analysis of a statically indeterminate beam

The large deformation analysis of a hyperelastic tensile test sample

This example shows the static analysis of a tensile test sample made of rubber. The dimensions of the sample are shown in the following figure. The thickness of the sample is 1.5mm. Using the symmetry, only 1/8 of the sample is analyzed. After solving the 1/8 model, the results of the full model can be … Continue reading The large deformation analysis of a hyperelastic tensile test sample

Contact Analysis of a Pipe-clamp Assembly

We have discussed multiple examples of contact analysis so far. In this post, we are going to investigate a pipe-clamp assembly. By using a pretensioned bolt, the clamp holds the pipe firmly (see the following figure). If the pretension is insufficient, slipping would happen between the pipe and clamp. If the pretension is too large, … Continue reading Contact Analysis of a Pipe-clamp Assembly

Harmonic analysis: A steel disk example

Harmonic analysis is used to determine the steady-state response of a linear structure to loads that vary sinusoidally (harmonically) with time, thus enabling you to verify whether or not your designs will successfully overcome resonance, fatigue, and other harmful effects of forced vibrations.  This analysis technique calculates only the steady-state, forced vibrations of a structure. … Continue reading Harmonic analysis: A steel disk example

The application of contact elements: A bolted beam-column connection

In this post, we are going to explore the application of CONTA174 (i.e. 3D 8-node face-face contact element). CONTA174 is used to represent contact and sliding between 3D target surfaces and a deformable surface defined by this element. It can be used for both pair-based contact and general contact. In the case of pair-based contact, … Continue reading The application of contact elements: A bolted beam-column connection