Comparing Stress results obtained by using computerized Finite Element Analysis Techniques and Classical Stress Analysis Techniques

Abstract

Using the theory of elasticity and advanced mathematics, numerous deflection and stress formulas have been developed for geometries and loading conditions that fall outside of the scope of classic strength of material. These solutions are referred to as classical stress formulas. Roark’s formulas for stress and strain is the standard document that has gathered the classical stress formulas in one place.

Finite element (FE) modeling is also a technique that is widely used for deflection and stress calculation of geometric and loading conditions that fall outside the scope of classical strength of material. The FE technique can model any geometry and loading condition. However, the accuracy of the FE model is dependent on the modeling technique.

The theme of the current article is to verify the FE modeling technique by developing FE models for geometric and loading conditions that have known classical stress formulas that are also close to the geometric and loading conditions of the FE model in order to verify the FE modeling technique and then making minor adjustments to the verified FE model in order to assure its accuracy.

The techniques demonstrated in the current article were used in a Machine Design course and will be use in Senior Capstone design projects at the author’s institution.