FUNDAMENTALS OF MECHANICS AND FEA

CONCEPTS
Part 4
F
F
F
F
R
a
R
b
R
a
R
b
M
a
M
b
Simply Supported Beam Both Ends Fixed Beam
Constraints can have a significant impact on the patterns of stress and strain predicted through FE analyses.
Below are comparison of two FE analyses of a beam that differ only in how constraints were applied.
Deformation modes and
high stress areas are
different.
Maximum Deflection for
SSB: 0.4 mm.
Maximum Deflection for
FB: 0.1 mm
FORCE DIAGRAM
ENGINEERING MATERIALS
Metals: Copper, aluminum, and cast iron, steels are examples. Metals may be mixed with other elements
especially other metals to produce alloys which will have improved properties. Heat treatment can also be
used to change the properties of alloys e.g. hardening and tempering of high carbon steel.
Polymers are made from long chain molecules which may have cross linking bonds affecting
flexibility/stiffness. There are three groups of polymers:
o Thermoplastics (acrylic, nylon, polyethylene, ABS,)
o Thermosets (epoxies, Polymides, Phenolics, )
o Elastomers (rubbers, silicones, polyurethanes, )
Composites are mixtures of materials which give improved properties and their applications are car
bodies and aerospace.
Ceramics are made by heating together materials such as silica, chalk and clays. Other chemicals may
be included to act as flux and to change color etc.
There are many different types of materials that designers can specify. Each have different advantages and
disadvantages. The best material for your application will depend on the nature of the product you are
designing. There are no easy answers.