 |
ISI Expands Design Capabilities with Finite Element Analysis Modeling
FEA modeling represents“the next logical step” beyond two-dimensional predictive simulations
As the use and exchange of 3D solid models between OEM’s and their suppliers becomes commonplace, ISI has taken “the next logical step” in computerized design capabilities by adding finite element analysis (FEA) modeling to its design engineers' toolkit.
Finite element analysis (FEA) is the application of the finite element method to the analysis of static or dynamic physical objects and systems. A common use of FEA is for the determination of stresses and displacements in mechanical objects and systems. However, it is also routinely used in the analysis of many other types of problems, including those in heat transfer and fluid mechanics. |
|
FEA analysis software has been around for a long time. In fact, ISI engineers used FEA analysis of gasket applications in the late 1980s to develop and validate their simpler “GMX” flange-modeling program. Historically, the main barrier to using FEA analysis on a routine basis was the difficulty in constructing 3D representations of the flanges and gasket. With the common use today of 3D solid modeling at the OEM level, flange models are readily available and all that’s left for ISI engineers is to design and construct the 3D model of the gasket.
“Given our proficiency in the computer design of gaskets using solid CAD models of joints, we are now using FEA modeling on most applications,” reveals Brian Lehr, manager of ISI’s Sealing Technology Team. “This allows us to get a full stress analysis of an entire joint at one time, looking particularly at compression of the gasket, shear stresses that could damage the gasket and internal pressure that could cause blowouts. The process makes our predictive results more accurate. We can generate reliable three-dimensional (3D) gasket representations based on more analysis and fewer assumptions.”
Lehr says that, with increasing frequency, original equipment manufacturers have asked ISI for FEA modeling results. There is a general trend in the industry to perform more analysis up front in computer models, and do less testing on hardware after expensive dies and tooling have been purchased. ISI responded by adding ANSYS Workbench FEA software and training its engineering staff. It is used on a routine basis for any application for which we were given 3D solid models of the OEM flange hardware. ANSYS is an FEA package that is used by design engineers at many of ISI’s current OEM customers.
|
