Introduction to FEA Principles

Course Dates

Course Summary

By attending this one-day course, delegates will gain a solid foundation for the practical elements of the finite element method. The course is not code specific and will not address in-depth theory, making it an ideal vehicle for those wishing to develop their understanding further.

Who Should Attend?

This course has been designed for delegates with no previous finite element experience; it is useful for designers moving into the field of finite element analysis. Understanding the basics will help you get the most out of CAD based finite element programs. It is assumed that

• The user does not have any previous experience and is predominantly from a design engineering background.
• The user has enough engineering expertise to evaluate analysis results and determine if they are reasonable.

The course is also useful to engineers who need to write specifications for finite element projects and will help interpret and check the results at the conclusion of these projects.

Agenda

1. Course Introduction

• Objectives of FEA
• The FEA Process
• Expectations of Analysis

2. Basic Concepts of FEA

• The Underlying Principles of FEA
• Static or Dynamic?
• Background to Structural Analysis
• Timeline History of FEA

3. The Basics of Stress Analysis

• The Basics of Stress and Strain
• Workshop 1 – Analysis of a Circular Bar
• Workshop 2 – Analysis of a Portal Frame

4. The Analysis Procedure

• Description of the Finite Element Method
• The Analysis Procedure
• Workshop 3 – Analysis of a Plate with a Hole

5. Element Definitions

• Element Types
• Element Shape Functions
• Mesh Convergence
• Workshop 4 – Analysis of a Cantilevered I-Beam

6. Analysis Types

• Overview
• Static
• Dynamic
• Heat Transfer

7. Assemblies

• Component Interfaces
• Welded Connections
• Bolted Connections
• Pin Connections
• Bearings
• Workshop 5 – Analysis of a Bolted Flange

Feedback from Previous Delegates

“…..was pleased with the training – it was just the right stepping stone for the career development plans we have for him this year and he was complimentary about the style and material. We’ll bear you in mind for future training provision.” Siemens Industrial Turbomachinery Ltd.

“Excellent course pitched at the level we required……..The course was aimed at mechanical engineers who have access to software or results. It was a great insight into dangers of not understanding FEA and its results.” AMEC

“ … Most knowledgeable tutor who kept the whole day light hearted” Schlumberger

“Good introduction for a complex subject …..Course provides a good grounding in the fundamentals of FEA.” VT Nuclear plc

“Good jargon busting course” University of Newcastle