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Chapter 1
Introduction
Introduction to ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1
Table of Contents
1. Introduction 2. FEA and ANSYS 3. ANSYS Basics 4. General Analysis Procedure 5. Creating the Solid Model 6. Creating the Finite Element Model 7. Defining the Material 8. Loading 9. Solution 10. Structural Analysis 11. Thermal Analysis 12. Coupled-field Analysis 13. Postprocessing 14. Short Topics
Training Manual
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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1 INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1 INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1 INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1
Chapter 2
FEA and ANSYS
Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS
What is FEA?
Finite Element Analysis is a way to simulate loading conditions on a design and determine the designs response to those conditions. The design is modeled using discrete building blocks called elements.
Each element has exact equations that describe how it responds to a certain load. The sum of the response of all elements in the model gives the total response of the design. The elements have a finite number of unknowns, hence the name finite elements.
Historical Note The finite element method of structural analysis was created by academic and industrial researchers during the 1950s and 1960s. The underlying theory is over 100 years old, and was the basis for pen-and-paper calculations in the evaluation of suspension bridges and steam boilers.
...What is FEA?
The finite element model, which has a finite number of unknowns, can only approximate the response of the physical system, which has infinite unknowns.
So the question arises: How good is the approximation? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. It depends entirely on what you are simulating and the tools you use for the simulation. We will, however, attempt to give you guidelines throughout this training course.
Physical System
F.E. Model
...What is FEA?
Why is FEA needed? To reduce the amount of prototype testing
Computer simulation allows multiple what-if scenarios to be tested quickly and effectively.
To simulate designs that are not suitable for prototype testing

Example: Surgical implants, such as an artificial knee
The bottom line:

Cost savings Time savings reduce time to market! Create more reliable, better-quality designs
About ANSYS
ANSYS is a complete FEA software package used by engineers worldwide in virtually all fields of engineering:
Structural Thermal Fluid (CFD, Acoustics, and other fluid analyses) Low- and High-Frequency Electromagnetics
A partial list of industries in which ANSYS is used:

Aerospace Automotive Biomedical Bridges & Buildings Electronics & Appliances Heavy Equipment & Machinery MEMS - Micro Electromechanical Systems Sporting Goods
About ANSYS
Structural analysis is used to determine deformations, strains, stresses, and reaction forces.
Static analysis
Used for static loading conditions. Nonlinear behavior such as large deflections, large strain, contact, plasticity, hyperelasticity, and creep can be simulated.
Compression of a Hyperelastic Seal
About ANSYS
Dynamic analysis
Includes mass and damping effects. Modal analysis calculates natural frequencies and mode shapes. Harmonic analysis determines a structures response to sinusoidal loads of known amplitude and frequency. Transient Dynamic analysis determines a structures response to time-varying loads and can include nonlinear behavior.
Other structural capabilities

Spectrum analysis Random vibrations Eigenvalue buckling Substructuring, submodeling
Mode Shape Animation
About ANSYS
Explicit Dynamics with ANSYS/LS-DYNA
Intended for very large deformation simulations where inertia forces are dominant. Used to simulate impact, crushing, rapid forming, etc.
Impact Analysis of a Vehicle Crash Test
About ANSYS
Thermal analysis is used to determine the temperature distribution in an object. Other quantities of interest include amount of heat lost or gained, thermal gradients, and thermal flux. All three primary heat transfer modes can be simulated: conduction, convection, radiation.
Steady-State
Time-dependent effects are ignored.
Transient
To determine temperatures, etc. as a function of time. Allows phase change (melting or freezing) to be simulated. Transient Temperature of a Warming Clothes Iron
About ANSYS
Electromagnetic analysis is used to calculate magnetic fields in electromagnetic devices. Static and low-frequency electromagnetics
To simulate devices operating with DC power sources, low-frequency AC, or low-frequency transient signals. Example: solenoid actuators, motors, transformers Quantities of interest include magnetic flux density, field intensity, magnetic forces and torques, impedance, inductance, eddy currents, power loss, and flux leakage.
About ANSYS
High-frequency electromagnetics
To simulate devices with propagating electromagnetic waves. Example: microwave and RF passive components, waveguides, coaxial connectors Quantities of interest include S-parameters, Q-factor, Return loss, dielectric and conducting losses, and electric and magnetic fields.
Electric field (EFSUM) in a coaxial cable
About ANSYS
Electrostatics
To calculate the electric field from voltage or charge excitation. Example: High voltage devices, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), transmission lines Typical quantities of interest are electric field strength and capacitance.
Current Conduction
To calculate current in a conductor from an applied voltage
Circuit Coupling
To couple electric circuits with electromagnetic devices
About ANSYS
Types of electromagnetic analysis:
Static analysis calculates magnetic fields due to direct current (DC) or permanent magnets. Harmonic analysis calculates magnetic fields due to alternating current (AC). Transient analysis is used for time-varying magnetic fields.
About ANSYS
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
To determine the flow distributions and temperatures in a fluid. ANSYS/FLOTRAN can simulate laminar and turbulent flow, compressible and incompressible flow, and multiple species. Applications: aerospace, electronic packaging, automotive design Typical quantities of interest are velocities, pressures, temperatures, and film coefficients.
Velocity of Fluid in a Duct
Pressure Distribution on a Football
About ANSYS
Acoustics
To simulate the interaction between a fluid medium and the surrounding solid. Example: speakers, automobile interiors, sonars Typical quantities of interest are pressure distribution, displacements, and natural frequencies.
Contained-Fluid Analysis
To simulate the effects of a contained, non-flowing fluid and calculate hydrostatic pressures due to sloshing. Example: oil tankers, other liquid containers
Heat and Mass Transport

A one-dimensional element is used to calculate the heat generated by mass transport between two points, such as in a pipe.
About ANSYS
Coupled-Field Analysis considers the mutual interaction between two or more fields. The fact that each field depends upon another makes it impossible to solve each separately, therefore you need a program that can solve both physics problems by combining them. Examples:
Thermal-stress analysis Piezoelectrics (electric & structural ) Acoustics (fluid & structural) Thermal-electric analysis Induction heating (magnetic and thermal) Electrostatic-structural analysis Deflection of a bi-metal bar due to heating
Chapter 3
ANSYS Basics
Chapter 3 The GUI
Layout
Icon Toolbar Menu Output Window
Utility Menu Input Line Raise/Hidden Icon
Training Manual
Command Window Icon Abbreviation Toolbar Menu Model Control Toolbar
Main Menu
Graphics Area
User Prompt Info
Current Settings
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Main Menu
Tree structure format. Contains the main functions required for an analysis. Use scroll bar to gain access to long tree structures. Colors used to show tree level.
Training Manual
scroll bar
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Main Menu
Tree structure behavior sub branch preserved
Before collapsing Preprocessor Branch
Training Manual
After expanding Preprocessor Branch
Select to collapse Preprocessor Branch
The tree structure is the same before and after the Preprocessor branch of Main Menu is collapsed
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Main Menu
Expand all option
Position mouse cursor on branch of Main Menu then select right mouse button
Training Manual
The option to expand the branch is displayed
Selecting Expand All expands the branch contents
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Abbreviation Toolbar Menu

Contains abbreviations -- short-cuts to commonly used commands and functions. A few predefined abbreviations are available, but you can add your own. Requires knowledge of ANSYS commands.
Training Manual
A powerful feature which you can use to create your own button menu system!
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Icon Toolbar Menu

Contains icons of commonly used functions. Can be customized by the user (i.e adding icons, additional toolbars)
Training Manual
Save Analysis
Pan-Zoom-Rotate Image Capture
Open ANSYS File Report Generator
New Analysis
ANSYS Help
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Chapter 3 The GUI
.Icon Toolbar Menu

Jobname definition when using Open ANSYS File Icon:
Open ANSYS File
Training Manual
the ANSYS jobname will be changed to the prefix of the database file being resumed.
When opening the blades.db database (using the Open ANSYS File Icon), the jobname will be changed to blades.
The Open ANSYS File Icon can be used to open either ANSYS Database or ANSYS Command file types
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Raise/Hidden Icon
The Raise/Hidden Icon can be used to bring to the front any hidden ANSYS created windows (except the output window).
Training Manual
Select Raise/ Hidden Icon
Pan/Zoom/Rotate Widget Hidden Pan/Zoom/Rotate Widget Shown
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Input Window
Training Manual
Allows you to enter commands. (Most GUI functions actually send commands to ANSYS. If you know these commands, you can type them in the Input Window). As a command is typed, the format of the command is dynamically displayed.
Clicking on the ANSYS Command Window Icon moves the input line to a separate command window, which can be moved around the screen.
Click on the X to return the input to the toolbar.
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Utility Menu
Training Manual
Contains utilities that are generally available throughout the ANSYS session: graphics, on-line help, select logic, file controls, etc. Conventions used in Utility Menu: indicates a dialog box + indicates graphical picking > indicates a submenu (blank) indicates an action
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Current Settings
The current element attributes settings, and currently active coordinate system are displayed at the bottom on the GUI.
Training Manual
Element Attributes
Active Coordinate System
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Chapter 3 The GUI
User prompt info
Training Manual
Instructions to the user are displayed in the lower left hand area of the GUI. The user will be given user prompt info for operations such as picking operations.
User Prompt Info
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Chapter 3 The GUI
Preferences
The Preferences dialog (Main Menu > Preferences) allows you to filter out menu choices that are not applicable to the current analysis. For example, if you are doing a thermal analysis, you can choose to filter out other disciplines, thereby reducing the number of menu items available in the GUI:
Only thermal element types will be shown in the element type selection dialog. Only thermal loads will be shown. Etc.
Training Manual
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Chapter 3 - Interactive Mode
Graphics and Picking

A Dynamic Mode setting is also available using Pan-Zoom-Rotate .
The same mouse button assignments apply. On 3-D graphics devices, you can also dynamically orient the light source. Useful for different light source shading effects.
Training Manual
When using 3-D driver
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Graphics and Picking

Other functions in the PanZoom-Rotate dialog box:
Preset views Zoom-in on specific regions of the model Pan, zoom, or rotate in discrete increments (as specified by the Rate slider) Rotation is about the screen X, Y, Z coordinates. Fit the plot to the window Reset everything to default
Zoom Box Zoom Win Zoom Front Back Top Bot Right Left Iso Obliq WP
Training Manual
+Z view, from (0,0,1) -Z view (0,0,-1) +Y view (0,1,0) -Y view (0,-1,0) +X view (1,0,0) -X view (-1,0,0) Isometric (1,1,1) Oblique (1,2,3) Working plane view
The majority of these options are available in the Model Control Toolbar.
Back Up
By picking center of a square By picking two corners of a box Same as Box Zoom, but box is proportional to window. Unzoom to previous zoom.
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The Database and Files

Save and Resume
Training Manual
Since the database is stored in the computers memory (RAM), it is good practice to save it to disk frequently so that you can restore the information in the event of a computer crash or power failure. The SAVE operation copies the database from memory to a file called the database file (or db file for short).
The easiest way to do a save is to click on Toolbar > SAVE_DB Or use: Utility Menu > File > Save as Jobname.db Utility Menu > File > Save as SAVE command
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The Database and Files
Training Manual
To restore the database from the db file back into memory, use the RESUME operation.
Toolbar > RESUME_DB Or use: Utility Menu > File > Resume Jobname.db Utility Menu > File > Resume from RESUME command
The default file name for SAVE and RESUME is jobname.db, but you can choose a different name by using the Save as or Resume from functions.
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Exiting ANSYS
Three ways to exit ANSYS:
Toolbar > QUIT Utility Menu > File > Exit Use the /EXIT command in the Input Window
Training Manual
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Chapter 4
General Analysis Procedure
Chapter 4 - General Analysis Procedure
Overview
Training Manual
Given: A 1 thick spherical aluminum tank with a height of 180 and radius of 100 tank is filled with water to a height of 80. The aluminum properties are E = 10E6 Psi, = 0.3.
A
100
100 1
Section Definition
80
lbf = 1.163279 3 in
Section A-A
m
c
Stress Convention
Question: Predict the membrane stress distributions in the meridional (m) and circumferential (c) directions?
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Chapter 4 - General Analysis Procedure
Overview
Every analysis involves four main steps: Preliminary Decisions
Which analysis type? What to model? Which element type?
Training Manual
Preliminary Decisions
Preprocessing
Define Material Create or import the model geometry Mesh the geometry
Preprocessing
Solution
Apply loads Solve
Solution
Postprocessing
Review results Check the validity of the solution
Postprocessing
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Chapter 4 - A. Preliminary Decisions
Which analysis type?

The analysis type usually belongs to one of the following disciplines:
Structural Thermal Electromagnetic
Training Manual
Fluid Coupled-Field
Motion of solid bodies, pressure on solid bodies, or contact of solid bodies Applied heat, high temperatures, or changes in temperature Devices subjected to electric currents (AC or DC), electromagnetic waves, and voltage or charge excitation Motion of gases/fluids, or contained gases/fluids Combinations of any of the above
The appropriate analysis type for this model is a structural analysis!
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What to model?
Training Manual
What should be used to model the geometry of the spherical tank? Axisymmetry since the loading, material, and the boundary conditions are symmetric. This type of model would provide the most simplified model. Rotational symmetry since the loading, material, and the boundary conditions are symmetric. Advantage over axisymmetry: offers some results away from applied boundary conditions. Full 3D model is an option, but would not be an efficient choice compared to the axisymmetric and quarter symmetry models. If model results are significantly influenced by symmetric boundary conditions, this may be the only option. An axisymmetric and a one-quarter symmetry (i.e. rotational symmetry) model will be analyzed for this model!
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Which Element Type?
Training Manual
What element type should be used for the model of the spherical tank?
Axisymmetric model: Axisymmetric since 2-D section can be revolved to created 3D geometry. Linear due to small displacement assumption. PLANE42 with KEYOPT(3) = 1 Rotational symmetry model: Shell since radius/thickness ratio > 10 Linear due to small displacement assumption. membrane stiffness only option since membrane stresses are required. SHELL63 with KEYOPT(1) = 1 Since the meshing of this geometry will create SHELL63 elements with shape warnings, a mid-side noded equation of the SHELL63 was used: SHELL93
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Chapter 4 - B. Preprocessing
Create the Solid Model

A typical solid model is defined by volumes, areas, lines, and keypoints.
Training Manual
Volumes are bounded by areas. They represent solid objects. Areas are bounded by lines. They represent faces of solid objects, or planar or shell objects. Lines are bounded by keypoints. They represent edges of objects. Keypoints are locations in 3-D space. They represent vertices of objects.
Volumes
Areas
Lines & Keypoints
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Create the Solid Model

What geometry should be used to model the spherical tank?
Training Manual
Axisymmetric model
One-quarter Symmetry Model
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Create the FEA Model
Training Manual
Meshing is the process used to fill the solid model with nodes and elements, i.e, to create the FEA model.
Remember, you need nodes and elements for the finite element solution, not just the solid model. The solid model does NOT participate in the finite element solution.
meshing
Solid model FEA model
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Create the FEA Model

What would the mesh of the spherical tank look like?
Training Manual
Axisymmetric model
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Define Material
Material Properties
Training Manual
Every analysis requires some material property input: Youngs modulus EX for structural elements, thermal conductivity KXX for thermal elements, etc. There are two ways to define material properties:
Material library Individual properties
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Chapter 4 C. Solution
Define Loads
There are five categories of loads:
DOF Constraints
Training Manual
Concentrated Loads Surface Loads Body Loads
Inertia Loads
Specified DOF values, such as displacements in a stress analysis or temperatures in a thermal analysis. Point loads, such as forces or heat flow rates. Loads distributed over a surface, such as pressures or convections. Volumetric or field loads, such as temperatures (causing thermal expansion) or internal heat generation. Loads due to structural mass or inertia, such as gravity and rotational velocity.
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Chapter 4 C. Solution
Define Loads
What are the loads on the spherical tank models? Edge Symmetry constraint Tangential Constraint* Hydrostatic pressure Edge Symmetry constraint
Training Manual
Tangential Constraint*
Hydrostatic pressure
Edge Symmetry constraint Axisymmetric model One-quarter Symmetry Model
* Tangential constraint used to allow comparison to Roarke closed form solution.
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Chapter 4 - D. Postprocessing
Review Results
Postprocessing is the final step in the finite element analysis process. It is imperative that you interpret your results relative to the assumptions made during model creation and solution.
Training Manual
You may be required to make design decisions based on the results, so it is a good idea not only to review the results carefully, but also to check the validity of the solution. ANSYS has two postprocessors:
POST1, the General Postprocessor, to review a single set of results over the entire model. POST26, the Time-History Postprocessor, to review results at selected points in the model over time. Mainly used for transient and nonlinear analyses. (Not discussed in this course.)
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Review Results
Training Manual
What are the circumferential stress results in the spherical tank models?
Axisymmetric model
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Review Results
What are the meridional stress results in the spherical tank models?
Training Manual
Axisymmetric model
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Chapter 6
Create Finite Element Model
Chapter 6 Creating the Finite Element Model
Overview
Training Manual
Meshing is the process used to fill the solid model with nodes and elements, i.e, to create the FEA model.
Remember, you need nodes and elements for the finite element solution, not just the solid model. The solid model does NOT participate in the finite element solution.
meshing
Solid model FEA model
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Element Attributes
There are three steps to meshing:
Define element attributes Specify mesh controls Generate the mesh
Training Manual
Element attributes are characteristics of the finite element model that you must establish prior to meshing. They include:
Element types Real constants Material properties Section properties (for BEAM44,188, and 189, SHELL181, and PRETS179)
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Element Attributes
Element Type The element type is an important choice that determines the following element characteristics:
Training Manual
Degree of Freedom (DOF) set. A thermal element type, for example, has one dof: TEMP, whereas a structural element type may have up to six dof: UX, UY, UZ, ROTX, ROTY, ROTZ. Element shape -- brick, tetrahedron, quadrilateral, triangle, etc. Dimensionality -- 2-D (X-Y plane only), or 3-D. Assumed displacement shape -- linear vs. quadratic.
ANSYS has a library of over 150 element types from which you can choose. Details on how to choose the correct element type will be presented later. For now, lets see how to define an element type.
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Element Attributes
Element category
Training Manual
ANSYS offers many different categories of elements. Some of the commonly used ones are:
Line elements Shells 2-D solids 3-D solids
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Element Attributes
Line elements:
Training Manual
Beam elements are used to model bolts, tubular members, C-sections, angle irons, or any long, slender members where only membrane and bending stresses are needed. Link elements are used to model springs, bolts, preloaded bolts, and truss members. Spring (combination) elements are used to model springs, bolts, or long slender parts, or to replace complex parts by an equivalent stiffness.
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Element Attributes
Shell elements:
Training Manual
Used to model thin panels or curved surfaces. The definition of thin depends on the application, but as a general guideline, the major dimensions of the shell structure (panel) should be at least 10 times its thickness.
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Element Attributes
2-D Solid elements:
Training Manual
Used to model a cross-section of solid objects. Must be modeled in the global Cartesian X-Y plane. All loads are in the X-Y plane, and the response (displacements) are also in the X-Y plane. Element behavior may be one of the following: plane stress plane strain generalized plain strain axisymmetric axisymmetric harmonic Y Z X
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Element Attributes
Plane stress assumes zero stress in the Z direction.
Valid for components in which the Z dimension is smaller than the X and Y dimensions. Z-strain is non-zero. Optional thickness (Z direction) allowed. Used for structures such as flat plates subjected to in-plane loading, or thin disks under pressure or centrifugal loading. Y Z X
Training Manual
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Element Attributes
Plane strain assumes zero strain in the Z direction.
Valid for components in which the Z dimension is much larger than the X and Y dimensions. Z-stress is non-zero. Used for long, constant cross-section structures such as structural beams. Y Z X
Training Manual
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Element Attributes
Axisymmetry assumes that the 3-D model and its loading can be generated by revolving a 2-D section 360 about the Y axis.
Axis of symmetry must coincide with the global Y axis. Negative X coordinates are not permitted. Y direction is axial, X direction is radial, and Z direction is circumferential (hoop) direction. Hoop displacement is zero; hoop strains and stresses are usually very significant. Used for pressure vessels, straight pipes, shafts, etc.
Training Manual
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Element Attributes
3-D Solid elements:
Training Manual
Used for structures which, because of geometry, materials, loading, or detail of required results, cannot be modeled with simpler elements. Also used when the model geometry is transferred from a 3-D CAD system, and a large amount of time and effort is required to convert it to a 2-D or shell form.
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Element Attributes
To define an element type:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Element Type > Add/Edit/Delete [Add] to add new element type Choose the desired type (such as SOLID92) and press OK [Options] to specify additional element options Or use the ET command: et,1,solid92
Training Manual
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Element Attributes
Real Constants and Section Properties:
Training Manual
Used for geometric properties that cannot be completely defined by the elements geometry. For example:
A beam element is defined by a line joining two nodes. This defines only the length of the beam. To specify the beams cross-sectional properties, such as the area, moment of inertia or dimensions, you need to use real constants or section properties. A shell element is defined by a quadrilateral or triangular area. This defines only the surface area of the shell. To specify the shell thickness or layers, you need to use real constants or section properties. Most 3-D solid elements do not require a real constant since the element geometry is fully defined by its nodes.
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Element Attributes
To define real constants:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Real Constants [Add] to add a new real constant set. If multiple element types have been defined, choose the element type for which you are specifying real constants. Then enter the real constant values. Or use the R family of commands.
Training Manual
Different element types require different real constants. Check the Elements Manual, available on-line, for details.
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Element Attributes
To define section properties:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Sections Ability to Import Sections Beam, Shell and Pretension sections can be created. Or use the SECxxx family of commands.
Training Manual
Different element types require different section properties. See the Elements Manual for details.
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Element Attributes
Material Properties
Training Manual
Every analysis requires some material property input: Youngs modulus EX for structural elements, thermal conductivity KXX for thermal elements, etc. Refer to Chapter 7 for details on the two ways to define material properties.
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Multiple Element Attributes
Training Manual
Most FEA models have multiple attributes. For example, the silo shown here has two element types, three real constant sets, and two materials.
TYPE 1 = shell TYPE 2 = beam
MAT 1 = concrete MAT 2 = steel
REAL 1 = 3/8 thickness REAL 2 = beam properties REAL 3 = 1/8 thickness
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Assigning Attributes to the Solid Model 1. Define all necessary element types, materials, and real constant sets. 2. Then use the Element Attributes section of the MeshTool (Main Menu > Preprocessor > MeshTool):
Choose entity type and press the SET button. Pick the entities to which you want to assign attributes. Set the appropriate attributes in the subsequent dialog box.
Training Manual
Or select the desired entities and use the VATT, AATT, LATT, or KATT command. 3. When you mesh an entity, its attributes are automatically transferred to the elements.
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Using Global Attribute Settings 1. Define all necessary element types, materials, real constant sets and section numbers 2. Then use the Element Attributes section of the MeshTool (Main Menu > Preprocessor > MeshTool):
Choose Global and press the SET button. Activate the desired combination of attributes in the Meshing Attributes dialog box. We refer to these as the active TYPE, REAL, MAT and SECNUM settings.
Training Manual
Or use the TYPE, REAL, MAT and SECNUM commands. 3. Mesh only those entities to which the above settings apply.
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Controlling Mesh Density
Training Manual
ANSYS provides many tools to control mesh density, both on a global and local level:
Global controls SmartSizing Global element sizing Default sizing Local controls Keypoint sizing Line sizing Area sizing
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SmartSizing
Training Manual
Determines element sizes by assigning divisions on all lines, taking into account curvature of the line, its proximity to holes and other features, and element order. SmartSizing is off by default, but is recommended for free meshing. It does not affect mapped meshing. (Free meshing vs. mapped meshing will be discussed later.)
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To use SmartSizing:
Bring up the MeshTool (Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool), turn on SmartSizing, and set the desired size level. Or use SMRT,level Size level ranges from 1 (very fine) to 10 (very coarse). Defaults to 6. Then mesh all volumes (or all areas) at once, rather than one-by-one.
Training Manual
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Examples of different SmartSize levels are shown here for a tetrahedron mesh. Advanced SmartSize controls, such as mesh expansion and transition factors, are available on the SMRT command or:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > SmartSize > Adv Opts
Training Manual
You can turn off SmartSizing using the MeshTool or by issuing smrt,off.
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Global Element Sizing Allows you to specify a maximum element edge length for the entire model (or number of divisions per line):
ESIZE,SIZE or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool; then select Size Controls, Global ,and [Set] or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > ManualSize > Global > Size
Training Manual
Can be used by itself or in conjunction with SmartSizing.

Using ESIZE by itself (SmartSizing off) will result in a uniform element size throughout the volume (or area) being meshed. With SmartSizing on, ESIZE acts as a guide, but the specified size may be overridden to accommodate line curvature or proximity to features.
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Default Sizing
Training Manual
If you dont specify any controls, ANSYS uses default sizing, which assigns minimum and maximum line divisions, aspect ratio, etc. based on element order. Meant for mapped meshing, but is also used for free meshing if SmartSizing is off. You can adjust default size specifications using DESIZE or
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > ManualSize > Global > Other
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Keypoint Sizing Controls element size at keypoints:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool; then select Size Controls, Keypt, and [Set] or KESIZE command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > ManualSize > Keypoints
Training Manual
Different keypoints can have different KESIZEs, giving you more control over the mesh. Useful for stress concentration regions. Specified sizes may be overridden by SmartSizing to accommodate line curvature or proximity to features.
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Line Sizing Controls element size at lines: Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool; then select Size Controls, Lines, and [Set] or LESIZE command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > ManualSize> Lines Different lines can have different LESIZEs. Size specifications may be hard or soft.
Hard sizes are always honored by the mesher, even if SmartSizing is on. They take precedence over all other size controls. Soft sizes may be overridden by SmartSizing.
Training Manual
Yes for soft No for hard
You can also specify a spacing ratio ratio of last division to first. Used to bias the divisions towards one end or towards the middle.
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Area Sizing Controls element size in the interior of areas:
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool; then select Size Controls, Areas, and [Set] or AESIZE command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Size Cntrls > ManualSize > Areas
Training Manual
Different areas can have different AESIZEs. Bounding lines will use the specified size only if they have no LESIZE or KESIZE specified and if no adjacent area has a smaller size. Specified sizes may be overridden by SmartSizing to accommodate line curvature or proximity to features.
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Mesh Order Control
Training Manual
By default, ANSYS will mesh areas or volumes in ascending entity number. The AORDER field on the MOPT command instructs ANSYS to mesh a group of areas or volumes in order of ascending size.
Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Mesher Opts , or MOPT,AORDER,ON (default is OFF)
In cases where SmartSizing does not mesh as fine as needed, the MOPT, AORDER,on command generates finer meshes in critical areas for volume meshes This option is not available when SmartSizing is on.
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Generating the Mesh

Generating the mesh is the final step in meshing. First save the database. Then press [Mesh] in the MeshTool.
This brings up a picker. Press [Pick All] in the picker to indicate all entities.
Training Manual
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Generating the Mesh

Demo:

Training Manual
Resume ribgeom.db Mesh with SMRT,6. (Not a very good mesh) Re-mesh with SMRT,3 (good mesh) Set ESIZE to 0.2 and re-mesh. The mesh becomes coarse even though SMRT is set to 3, because the smart-mesher takes ESIZE into account. Also, note that the element sizes are not uniform (because SMRT is on). Turn off SMRT and re-mesh. Element sizes are now more uniform (but not ideal). Re-mesh with ESIZE set to 0.1.
Good meshes generated for this geometry with SMRT,3 or ESIZE,0.1.
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Changing a Mesh
If a mesh is not acceptable, you can always re-mesh the model by following these steps:
1. Clear the mesh. The clear operation is the opposite of mesh: it removes nodes and elements. Use the [Clear] button on the MeshTool, or use VCLEAR, ACLEAR, etc. (If you are using the MeshTool, you may skip this step since the program will prompt you whether to clear or not when you execute step 3.) 2. Specify new or different mesh controls. 3. Mesh again.
Training Manual
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Changing a Mesh
Another meshing option is to refine the mesh in specific regions.
Available for all area elements and only tetrahedral volume elements. Easiest way is to use the MeshTool: First save the database. Then choose how you want to specify the region of refinement at nodes, elements, keypoints, lines, or areas and press the Refine button. Pick the entities at which you want the mesh to be refined. (Not required if you choose All Elems.) Finally, choose the level of refinement. Level 1 (minimal refinement) is a good starting point.
Training Manual
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Changing a Mesh
Demo:
Training Manual
Continuing the last demo (ribgeom has been meshed with ESIZE = 0.2) Choose refinement at Lines and press Refine Pick the top line, then choose the default minimal refinement
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Mapped Meshing
There are two main meshing methods: free and mapped. Free Mesh
Has no element shape restrictions. The mesh does not follow any pattern. Suitable for complex shaped areas and volumes.
Training Manual
Mapped Mesh
Restricts element shapes to quadrilaterals for areas and hexahedra (bricks) for volumes. Typically has a regular pattern with obvious rows of elements. Suitable only for regular areas and volumes such as rectangles and bricks.
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Mapped Meshing
Free Mesh + Easy to create; no need to divide complex shapes into regular shapes. Volume meshes can contain only tetrahedra, resulting in a large number of elements. Only higher-order (10-node) tetrahedral elements are acceptable, so the number of DOF can be very high. + Mapped Mesh Generally contains a lower number of elements.
Training Manual
Lower-order elements may be acceptable, so the number of DOF is lower. Areas and volumes must be regular in shape, and mesh divisions must meet certain criteria. Very difficult to achieve, especially for complex shaped volumes.
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Mapped Meshing
Creating a Free Mesh Free meshing is the default setting for both area and volume meshes. Create a free mesh is easy:
Bring up the MeshTool and verify that free meshing is set. SmartSizing is generally recommended for free meshing, so activate it and specify a size level. Save the database. Then initiate the mesh by pressing the Mesh button. Press [Pick All] in the picker to choose all entities (recommended). Or use the commands VMESH,ALL or AMESH,ALL.
Training Manual
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Mapped Meshing
Creating a Mapped Mesh This is not as easy as free meshing because the areas and volumes have to meet certain requirements:
Training Manual
Area must contain either 3 or 4 lines (triangle or quadrilateral). Volume must contain either 4, 5, or 6 areas (tetrahedron, triangular prism, or hexahedron). Element divisions on opposite sides must match. For triangular areas or tetrahedral volumes, the number of element divisions must be even.
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Mapped Meshing
Training Manual
For quadrilateral areas or hexahedral volumes, unequal divisions are allowed, as shown in these examples, but the number of divisions must satisfy a formula (shown on the next page).
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Mapped Meshing
Training Manual
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Mapped Meshing
Thus mapped meshing involves a three-step procedure:
Training Manual
Ensure regular shapes, i.e, areas with 3 or 4 sides, or volumes with 4, 5, or 6 sides. Specify size and shape controls Generate the mesh
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Mapped Meshing
Ensure regular shapes
Training Manual
In most cases, the model geometry is such that the areas have more than 4 sides, and volumes have more that 6 sides. To convert these to regular shapes, you may need to do one or both of these operations:
Slice the areas (or volumes) into smaller, simpler shapes. Concatenate two or more lines (or areas) to reduce the total number of sides.
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Mapped Meshing
Training Manual
Slicing can be accomplished with the Boolean divide operation.

Remember that you can use the working plane, an area, or a line as the slicing tool. Sometimes, it may be easier to create a new line or a new area than to move and orient the working plane in the correct direction.
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Mapped Meshing
Training Manual
Concatenation creates a new line (for meshing purposes) that is a combination of two or more lines, thereby reducing the number of lines making up the area.
Use the LCCAT command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Concatenate > Lines, then pick the lines to be concatenated. For area concatenation, use ACCAT command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Concatenate > Areas
Concatenating these two lines makes this a 4-sided area
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Mapped Meshing
Training Manual
You can also imply a concatenation by simply identifying the three or four corners of the area. In this case, ANSYS internally generates the concatenation.
To do this, choose Quad shape and Map mesh in the MeshTool. Then change 3/4 sided to Pick corners. Press the Mesh button, pick the area, and then pick the 3 or 4 corners that form the regular shape.
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Mapped Meshing
Notes on concatenation:
Training Manual
It is purely a meshing operation and therefore should be the last step before meshing, after all solid modeling operations. This is because the output entity obtained from a concatenation cannot be used in any subsequent solid modeling operation. You can "undo" a concatenation by deleting the line or area it produced. Concatenating areas (for mapped volume meshing) is generally much more complicated because you may also need to concatenate some lines. Lines are automatically concatenated only when two adjacent, 4-sided areas are concatenated. Consider the add (Boolean) operation if the lines or areas meet at a tangent.
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Mapped Meshing
Specify size and shape controls This is the second step of the three-step mapped meshing procedure. Choosing the shape is simple. In the MeshTool, choose Quad for area meshing, and Hex for volume meshing, then click on Map. Commonly used size controls and the order in which they are applied:
Line sizing [LESIZE] is always honored. Global element size , if specified, will be applied to unsized lines. Default element sizing [DESIZE] will be applied to unsized lines only if ESIZE is not specified. (SmartSizing is not valid.)
Training Manual
Meshing Areas:
Meshing Volumes:
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Mapped Meshing
If you specify line divisions, remember that:
Training Manual
divisions on opposite sides must match, but you only need to specify one side. The map mesher automatically transfers divisions to the opposite side. if you have concatenated lines, divisions can only be applied to the original (input) lines, not the composite line.
6 divisions specified on each original line. 12 divisions will be automatically applied to this line (opposite to composite line). How many divisions are used for the other two lines? (Upcoming demo will answer it.)
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Mapped Meshing
Generate the mapped mesh
Training Manual
Once you have ensured regular shapes and assigned the appropriate divisions, generating the mesh is easy. Just press the Mesh button in the MeshTool, then press [Pick All] in the picker or choose the desired entities.
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Mapped Meshing
Question: How would you slice this model for mapped meshing?
Training Manual
Answer: It may not be worth the effort!
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Mapped Meshing
Demo:
Resume ribfull.db Bring up MeshTool and apply 6 divisions to top and right lines Map-mesh the area using Pick corners. Notice that the left and bottom lines get only two divisions each (from DESIZE). Now specify ESIZE,,4 (4 divisions per line) and re-mesh Finally, clear line divisions, specify ESIZE,0.1 (size), and re-mesh
Training Manual
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
For volume meshing, we have only seen two options so far:
Free meshing, which creates an all-tet mesh. This is easy to achieve but may not be desirable in some cases because of the large number of elements and total DOF created. Mapped meshing, which creates an all-hex mesh. This is desirable but usually very difficult to achieve.
Training Manual
Hex-to-tet meshing provides a third option that is the best of both worlds. It allows you to have a combination of hex and tet meshes without compromising the integrity of the mesh.
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
Training Manual
This option works by creating pyramid-shaped elements in the transition region between hex and tet regions.
Requires the hex mesh to be available (or at least a quad mesh at the shared area). The mesher first creates all tets, then combines and rearranges the tet elements in the transition region to form pyramids. Available only for element types that support both pyramid and tet shapes, e.g: Structural SOLID95, 186, VISCO89 Thermal SOLID90 Multiphysics SOLID62, 117, 122
Results are good even in the transition region. Element faces are compatible even when transitioning from a linear hex element to a quadratic tet element. SOLID95
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
Training Manual
Hex-to-tet meshing is valid for both quadratic-to-quadratic and linear-toquadratic transitions. Element type must support a 9-node pyramid for the latter.
Hex Mesh
Transition Layer
Tet Mesh
Quadratic to Quadratic 20-Node Hex 13-Node Pyramid 10-Node Tet
Linear to Quadratic 8-Node Hex 9-Node Pyramid 10-Node Tet
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
Procedure involves four steps: 1. Create the hex mesh.
Training Manual
Start by map-meshing the regular-shaped volumes. (Or mesh the shared areas with quads.) For stress analysis, use either an 8-node brick (SOLID45 or SOLID185) or a 20-node brick (SOLID95 or SOLID186).
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
Training Manual
2. Activate an element type that supports both pyramids and tets.

These are usually brick elements that can degenerate into pyramids and tets. Check the Elements Manual, available on-line, to find out which element types are valid. Examples: Structural SOLID95, 186, VISCO89 Thermal SOLID90 Multiphysics SOLID62, 117, 122
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
3. Generate the tet mesh.
First activate free meshing. Then mesh the volumes that are to be tet-meshed.
Training Manual
Pyramids are automatically generated at the interface.
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
4. Convert degenerate tets to true 10-node tets.
Training Manual
The tet mesh created by the transition mesher consists of degenerate elements 10-node tetrahedra derived from 20-node bricks, for example. These elements are not as efficient as true 10-node tets such as SOLID92, which use less memory and write smaller files during solution. To convert the degenerate tets into true tets: Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Modify Mesh > Change Tets Or use the TCHG command.
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Hex-to-Tet Meshing
Demo:
Training Manual
Resume hextet.db Show element type list using Element Type > Add/Edit/Delete. There are two element types: SOLID45 & 95 Bring up MeshTool and set ESIZE,1 (size) Map-mesh the regular shaped volume Set element type to 2, and activate tet-meshing Free-mesh the other volume Convert degenerate tets to SOLID92 Show element type list. There are now three element types. Select elements of type 2 (SOLID95 pyramids) and plot elements
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Mesh Extrusion
Training Manual
When you extrude an area into a volume, you can extrude the area elements along with it, resulting in a meshed volume. This is called mesh extrusion. Advantage: Easy to create a volume mesh with all bricks (hexahedra) or a combination of bricks and prisms. Obvious requirement: Shape of the volume must lend itself to extrusion.
Extrude
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Mesh Extrusion
Procedure 1. Define two element types an area element and a volume element.
Area element: Choose MESH200 quadrilaterals. MESH200 is a meshonly (Not Solved) element and has no DOFs or material properties associated with it. Volume element: Should be compatible with the MESH200 element type. For example, if you choose midside nodes for MESH200, the 3-D solid element should also have midside nodes. ET command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Element Type > Add/Edit/Delete
Training Manual
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Mesh Extrusion
2. Mesh the area to be extruded with MESH200 elements.
Use mapped or free meshing with desired mesh density. Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > MeshTool
Training Manual
3. Choose element extrusion options.

EXTOPT command or Main Menu > Preprocessor > Modeling > Operate > Extrude > Elem Ext Opts Typical options are: Active TYPE attribute (should be 3-D solid). Number of element divisions in the extrusion direction (i.e, number of elements through the thickness). Must be greater than zero; otherwise, only the area will be extruded, without elements.
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Mesh Extrusion
4. Extrude the area.
Training Manual
First delete concatenated lines, if any. If concatenations are present, ANSYS will not allow the extrusion operation. Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Concatenate > Del Concats > Lines Then extrude the area using any of the extrusion methods.
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Mesh Extrusion
Demo:
Training Manual
Resume ribgeom.db Bring up the Element Types dialog, delete PLANE82 element type, and replace it with MESH200 4-node quad Also add SOLID45 as element type 2 Bring up MeshTool and set ESIZE,0.1 Choose free quad-meshing and mesh the area Set extrusion options: TYPE=2, number of element divisions = 4 Rotate view to ISO Extrude area along normal with offset = 0.4 Save the database to ribvol.db
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Sweep Meshing
Sweep meshing is yet another option available for volume meshing. It is the process of meshing an existing volume by sweeping an area mesh.
Training Manual
Similar to mesh extrusion, except that the volume already exists in this case (from a geometry import, for example).
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Sweep Meshing
Advantages:
Easy to create a volume mesh with all bricks (hexahedra) or a combination of bricks and prisms. Option to tet-mesh volumes that are not sweepable. Transition pyramids are automatically generated.
Training Manual
Target surface (1 area)
Source surface (1 area)
Requirements:
Topology of the volume must be consistent in the sweep direction. Example: a block with a through hole (ok even if the hole is tapered). Source and target surfaces must be single areas. Concatenated areas are not allowed for either the source or the target.
Valid for sweep meshing
Not valid for sweep meshing

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Sweep Meshing
Procedure Define and activate a 3-D hexahedral solid element type, such as structural SOLID45 or SOLID95. Bring up MeshTool and choose Hex/Wedge and Sweep. Choose how the source and target surfaces are identified:
Auto Source/Target means that ANSYS will automatically choose them based on the volumes topology. Pick Source/Target means that you will be choosing them.
Training Manual
Press the SWEEP button and follow prompt instructions from the picker. (Or use VSWEEP command.)
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Sweep Meshing
Tet-Mesh Option A useful sweep option is to generate a tetmesh in non-sweepable volumes. To use this option:
Make sure that the element type supports degenerate pyramid and tetrahedron shapes. Examples:
Structural SOLID95, 186, VISCO89 Thermal SOLID90 Multiphysics SOLID62, 117, 122
Training Manual
Choose Main Menu > Preprocessor > Meshing > Mesh > Volume Sweep > Sweep Opts and activate the tet-mesh option. (Or use the EXTOPT,VSWE command.)
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Sweep Meshing
Notes
Training Manual
To map-mesh a complex volume, you may need to slice it several times and also do some area and line concatenations. For sweep meshing, you typically need only a few slicing operations, and no concatenations are needed! You can control the source area mesh using standard mesh controls. SmartSizing is generally not recommended since it is meant for free meshing.
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Chapter 7
Defining the Material
Chapter 7 Defining the Material
Material Model GUI

Specifying Individual Material Properties Instead of choosing a material name, this method involves directly specifying the required properties through the Material Model GUI.
Training Manual
To specify individual properties:

Main Menu > Preprocessor > Material Props > Material Models Double-click on the appropriate property to be defined.
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Material Model GUI

Work through the tree structure to the material type to be defined. Then enter the individual property values. Or use the MP command.
mp,ex,1,30e6 mp,prxy,1,.3
Training Manual
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Listing Defined Materials

The Material Model GUI shows one material at a time. Multiple material properties can be listed by:
Utility Menu > List > Properties > All Materials Or, use the MPLIST command
Training Manual
Note, Nonlinear material properties can be listed using Utility Menu > List Properties > Data Tables or via the TBLIST command.
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Chapter 8
Loading
Chapter 8 - Loading
Overview
Training Manual
The solution step is where we apply loads on the object and let the solver calculate the finite element solution. Loads are available both in the Solution and Preprocessor menus.
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Chapter 8 - Loading
Define Loads
There are five categories of loads:
DOF Constraints
Training Manual
Concentrated Loads Surface Loads Body Loads
Inertia Loads
Specified DOF values, such as displacements in a stress analysis or temperatures in a thermal analysis. Point loads, such as forces or heat flow rates. Loads distributed over a surface, such as pressures or convections. Volumetric or field loads, such as temperatures (causing thermal expansion) or internal heat generation. Loads due to structural mass or inertia, such as gravity and rotational velocity.
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Chapter 8 - Loading
Define Loads
Training Manual
You can apply loads either on the solid model or directly on the FEA model (nodes and elements).
Solid model loads are easier to apply because there are fewer entities to pick. Moreover, solid model loads are independent of the mesh. You dont need to reapply the loads if you change the mesh.
Pressure on line
Pressures on element faces
Constraint on line Solid model FEA model
Constraints at nodes
Force at keypoint
Force at node
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Chapter 8 - Loading
...Nodal Coordinate System

To rotate nodes, use this four-step procedure:
1. Select the desired nodes. 2. Activate the coordinate system (or create a local CS) into which you want to rotate the nodes, e.g, CSYS,1. 3. Choose Main Menu > Preprocessor > Modeling > Move/Modify > Rotate Node CS > To Active CS, then press [Pick All] in the picker. Or issue NROTAT,ALL. 4. Reactivate all nodes.
Training Manual
Note: When you apply symmetry on anti-symmetry boundary conditions, ANSYS automatically rotates all nodes on that boundary.
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Chapter 8 - Loading
...Nodal Coordinate System

Demo:

Training Manual
Resume rib.db. Offset working plane to center of bottom circle (using average keypoint location). Create local cylindrical CS at working plane origin. Select nodes at radius = 0.35 and plot them. Rotate all selected nodes into active system. Apply a UX displacement constraint (or an FX force) at all selected nodes. Note the radial direction. Now activate global Cartesian (CSYS,0). Rotate all selected nodes into active system. Replot, and note the new direction of the loads.
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Loading & Solution
Displacement Constraints
Training Manual
Displacement constraints are also used to enforce symmetry or antisymmetry boundary conditions.
Symmetry BC: Out-of-plane displacements and in-plane rotations are fixed. Antisymmetry BC: In-plane displacements and out-of-plane rotations are fixed.
Y X
Symmetry Boundary UX=0 ROTY=ROTZ=0
Antisymmetry Boundary UY=UZ=0 ROTX=0
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Loading & Solution
Concentrated Forces
A force is a concentrated load (or point load) that you can apply at a node or keypoint. Point loads such as forces are appropriate for line element models such as beams, spars, and springs. In solid and shell models, point loads usually cause a stress singularity, but are acceptable if you ignore stresses in the vicinity. Remember, you can use select logic to ignore the elements in the vicinity of the point load.
Training Manual
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Loading & Solution
...Concentrated Forces
Training Manual
In the 2-D quarter symmetry solid model shown at bottom left, notice that maximum stress SMAX (23,590) is reported at the location of the force. When the nodes and elements in the vicinity of the force are unselected, SMAX (12,281) moves to the bottom left corner, which is another singularity due to the reentry corner. Reflected about x-z plane
half symmetry model
reentry corner
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Loading & Solution
Concentrated Forces
Training Manual
By unselecting nodes and elements near the bottom left corner, you get the expected stress distribution with SMAX (7,945) near the top hole.
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Loading & Solution
Concentrated Forces
Note that for axisymmetric models: Input values of forces are based on the full 360. Output values (reaction forces) are also based on the full 360.
Training Manual
For example, suppose a cylindrical shell of radius r has an edge load of P lb/in. To apply this load on a 2-D axisymmetric shell model (SHELL51 elements, for example), you would specify a force of 2rP.
P lb/in
2rP lb
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Loading & Solution
Verifying Loads
Verifying applied loads Plot them by activating load symbols:
Utility Menu > PlotCtrls > Symbols Commands -- /PBC, /PSF, /PBF
Training Manual
Or list them:
Utility Menu > List > Loads >
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Chapter 10
Structural Analysis
Chapter 10 A. Preprocessing
Geometry
Geometry Can either be created within ANSYS or imported. Include details to improve results:

Training Manual
Goal is to sufficiently model the stiffness of the structure Add details to avoid stress singularities (e.g. fillets) Exclude details not in region of interest (e.g. exclude small holes) Add details to improve boundary conditions (e.g. apply pressure to an area rather than using concentrated load)
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Meshing
Element type
Training Manual
The table below shows commonly used structural element types. The nodal DOFs may include: UX, UY, UZ, ROTX, ROTY, and ROTZ. Commonly used structural element types
2-D Solid Linear PLANE42 3-D Solid SOLID45 SOLID185 SOLID95 SOLID92 SOLID186 3-D Shell SHELL63 SHELL181 Line Elements BEAM3 BEAM4 BEAM188 Quadratic PLANE82 PLANE2 SHELL93 BEAM189
Material properties
Minimum requirement is Youngs Modulus, EX. If Poissons Ratio is not entered a default of 0.3 will be assumed. Setting preferences to Structural limits the Material Model GUI to display only structural properties.
Real constants and Section properties

Primarily needed for shell and line elements.
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Chapter 10 B. Solution
Define Loads
Structural loading conditions can be:
Training Manual
DOF Constraints Concentrated Forces Pressures Uniform Temperature
Regions of the model where displacements are known. External forces that can be simplified as a point load. Surfaces where forces on an area are known. Temperatures applied as a body force used with a reference temperature to predict thermal strains. Accelerations applied as inertia boundary conditions
Gravity
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Training Manual
Used to specify where the model is fixed (zero displacement locations). Can also be non-zero, to simulate a known deflection. To apply displacement constraints :
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Structural > Displacement Choose where you want to apply the constraint. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then choose the constraint direction. Value defaults to zero. Or use the D family of commands: DK, DL, DA, D.
Question: In which coordinate system are UX, UY, and UZ interpreted?
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Concentrated Forces
To apply a force, the following information is needed:
Training Manual
node or keypoint number (which you can identify by picking) force magnitude (which should be consistent with the system of units you are using) direction of the force FX, FY, or FZ
Use:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Structural > Force/Moment Or the commands FK or F
Question: In which coordinate system are FX, FY, and FZ interpreted?
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Pressure
Pressures To apply a pressure:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply Structural > Pressure Choose where you want to apply the pressure -- usually on lines for 2-D models, on areas for 3-D models. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then enter the pressure value. A positive value indicates a compressive pressure (acting towards the centroid of the element). Or use the SF family of commands: SFL, SFA, SFE, SF.
Training Manual
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Pressure
For a 2-D model, where pressures are usually applied on a line, you can specify a tapered pressure by entering a value for both the I and J ends of the line. I and J are determined by the line direction. If you see the taper going in the wrong direction, simply reapply the pressure with the values reversed.
500 L3
Training Manual
500
VALI = 500 1000 500 L3 VALI = 500 VALJ = 1000 1000 500 L3 VALI = 1000 VALJ = 500
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Uniform temperature
Uniform Temperature To define uniform temperature
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Structural > Temperature > Uniform Temp Or use the TUNIF command.
Training Manual
Recall,
th = (T Tref )
To define reference temperature

Main Menu > Solution > Load Step Opts > Other > Reference Temp Or use the TREF command or as MP,REFT
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Gravity
Gravity To apply gravitational acceleration:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Structural > Gravity Or use the ACEL command.
Training Manual
Notes:
A positive acceleration value causes deflection in the negative direction. If Y is pointing upwards, for example, a positive ACELY value will cause the structure to move downwards. Density (or mass in some form) must be defined for gravity and other inertia loads.
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Modifying and Deleting Loads

Modifying and Deleting Loads To modify a load value, simply reapply the load with the new value. To delete loads:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Delete When you delete solid model loads, ANSYS also automatically deletes all corresponding finite element loads.
Training Manual
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Solutions Options
Static vs. Dynamic Analysis A static analysis assumes that only the stiffness forces are significant.
Training Manual
A dynamic analysis takes into account all three types of forces. For example, consider the analysis of a diving board.
If the diver is standing still, it might be sufficient to do a static analysis. But if the diver is jumping up and down, you will need to do a dynamic analysis.
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Solutions Options
Training Manual
Inertia and damping forces are usually significant if the applied loads vary rapidly with time. Therefore you can use time-dependency of loads as a way to choose between static and dynamic analysis.
If the loading is constant over a relatively long period of time, choose a static analysis. Otherwise, choose a dynamic analysis.
In general, if the excitation frequency is less than 1/3 of the structures lowest natural frequency, a static analysis may be acceptable.
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Solutions Options
Linear vs. Nonlinear Analysis
Training Manual
A linear analysis assumes that the loading causes negligible changes to the stiffness of the structure. Typical characteristics are:
Small deflections Strains and stresses within the elastic limit No abrupt changes in stiffness such as two bodies coming into and out of contact
Stress
Elastic modulus (EX)
Strain
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Solutions Options
Training Manual
A nonlinear analysis is needed if the loading causes significant changes in the structures stiffness. Typical reasons for stiffness to change significantly are:
Strains beyond the elastic limit (plasticity) Large deflections, such as with a loaded fishing rod Contact between two bodies
Stress
Strain
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Chapter 10 C. Postprocessing
Review Results
Reviewing results of a stress analysis generally involves:
Deformed shape Stresses Reaction forces
Training Manual
Deformed Shape Gives a quick indication of whether the loads were applied in the correct direction. Legend column shows the maximum displacement, DMX. You can also animate the deformation.
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Review Results
To plot the deformed shape:
General Postproc > Plot Results > Deformed Shape Or use the PLDISP command.
Training Manual
For animation:
Utility Menu > PlotCtrls > Animate > Deformed Shape Or use the ANDISP command.
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Review Results
Stresses The following stresses are typically available for a 3-D solid model:
Training Manual
Component stresses SX, SY, SZ, SXY, SYZ, SXZ (global Cartesian directions by default) Principal stresses S1, S2, S3, SEQV (von Mises), SINT (stress intensity)
Best viewed as contour plots, which allow you to quickly locate hot spots or trouble regions.
Nodal solution: Stresses are averaged at the nodes, showing smooth, continuous contours. Element solution: No averaging, resulting in discontinuous contours.
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Review Results
To plot stress contours:

Training Manual
General Postproc > Plot Results > Contour Plot > Nodal Solu or PLNSOL command General Postproc > Plot Results > Contour Plot > Element Solu or PLESOL command
You can also animate stress contours:

Utility Menu > PlotCtrls > Animate > Deformed Results... or ANCNTR command
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A Note on PowerGraphics It is the default graphics setting (/GRAPH,POWER). Plots only the visible surfaces and ignores everything underneath. Advantages:
Faster REPLOT, crisp graphics. Smooth, almost photo-realistic displays. Prevents stress averaging across material and real constant boundaries.
Training Manual
To deactivate PowerGraphics (or activate full graphics):

Toolbar > POWRGRPH Or issue /GRAPH,FULL Or interactively, Utility Menu>PlotCtrls>Style> HiddenLineOptions> Graphics Display Method is...Full Model
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Review Results
Reaction Forces
Training Manual
The sum of the reaction forces in each direction must equal the sum of applied loads in that direction. Best viewed as a listing:
General Postprocessor > List Results > Reaction Solution or PRRSOL command
This example had an applied pressure of 1000 psi in the Y direction over a 10 x 10 area, which results in reaction forces at nodes where constraints were applied. Notice that the total value of force in the X and Z directions are zero, and the Y direction is 1000*(10x10) = 0.1e6.
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Verify Results
Training Manual
It is always a good idea to do a sanity check and make sure that the solution is acceptable. What you need to check depends on the type of problem you are solving, but here are some typical questions to ask: Do FEA results agree with hand calculations or experimental data? Is the displacement solution correct? Check the FEA displacement solution first since FEA stresses are second order results. Do the reaction forces balance the applied loads? Where is the maximum stress located?
If it is at a singularity, such as a point load or a re-entrant corner, the value is generally meaningless. Are the stress values beyond the elastic limit? If so, the load magnitudes may be wrong, or you may need to do a nonlinear analysis.
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Verify Results
Is the mesh adequate?
Training Manual
This is always debatable, but you can gain confidence in the mesh by using error estimation. Other ways to check mesh adequacy: Plot the element solution (unaveraged stresses) and look for elements with high stress gradients. These regions are candidates for mesh refinement. If there is a significant difference between the nodal (averaged) and element (unaveraged) stress contours, the mesh may be too coarse. Similarly, if there is a significant difference between PowerGraphics and full graphics stresses, the mesh may be too coarse. Re-mesh with twice as many elements, re-solve, and compare the results. (But this may not always be practical.)
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Chapter 11
Thermal Analysis
Chapter 11 Thermal Analysis
Overview

Training Manual
In this chapter, we will describe the specifics of a thermal analysis. The purpose is two-fold:
To reiterate the general analysis procedure. To introduce you to thermal loads and boundary conditions
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Geometry
Geometry Can either be created within ANSYS or imported. Include details to improve results:
Training Manual
Goal is to sufficiently model the thermal mass of the structure. Convection loads requires areas be correctly modeled. Heat generation loads requires the volumes be correctly modeled.
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Meshing
Element type
Training Manual
The table below shows commonly used thermal element types. The nodal DOF is: TEMP. Commonly used thermal element types
2-D Solid Linear Quadratic PLANE55 PLANE77 PLANE35 3-D Solid SOLID70 SOLID90 SOLID87 3-D Shell SHELL57 SHELL131 SHELL132 Line Elements LINK31,32,33,34
Material properties
Minimum requirement is Kx, thermal conductivity for steady state analysis. Setting preferences to thermal limits the Material Model GUI to display only Thermal properties.
Real constants / Section properties

Primarily needed for shell and line elements.
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Overview
Thermal loading conditions can be:
Temperatures Heat flow Heat flux Convections Regions of the model where temperatures are known. Points where the heat flow rate is known.
Training Manual
Surfaces where the heat flow rate per unit area is known. Surfaces where heat is transferred to (or from) surroundings by means of convection. Input consists of film coefficient h and bulk temperature of the surrounding fluid Tb. Regions where the volumetric heat generation rate is known. Perfectly insulated surfaces where no heat transfer takes place. Surfaces where heat transfer occurs by means of radiation. Input consists of emissivity, Stefan-Boltzmann constant, and optionally, temperature at a space node.
Heat generation
Adiabatic surfaces
Radiation*
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Nodal Coordinate System
Training Manual
Unlike the structural analysis displacement and force boundary conditions, the analogous thermal analysis temperature and heat flow boundary conditions are not dependent on the nodal coordinate system.
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Temperature Constraints
Temperature Constraints Used to specify a known temperature in the model. To apply displacement constraints :
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Thermal > Temperature Choose where you want to apply the constraint. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then enter the temperature value. Value defaults to zero. Or use the D family of commands: DK, DL, DA, D.
Training Manual
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Concentrated Heat Flow

To apply a heat flow, the following information is needed:
Training Manual
node or keypoint number (which you can identify by picking) heat flow magnitude (which should be consistent with the system of units you are using)
Use:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Thermal > Heat Flow Or the commands FK or F
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Heat Flux
Heat Flux: To apply heat flux:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Thermal > Heat flux Choose where you want to apply the heat flux-- usually on lines for 2-D models, on areas for 3-D models. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then enter the heat flux values. Or use the SF family of commands: SFL, SFA, SFE, SF.
Training Manual
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Convections
Convective Loads To apply a convection:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Thermal > Convection Choose where you want to apply the convection -- usually on lines for 2-D models, on areas for 3-D models. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then enter the film coefficient and bulk temperature values. Or use the SF command family: SFL, SFA, SFE, SF.
Training Manual
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Heat Generation
Heat Generation To apply heat generation:
Maine Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Apply > Thermal > Heat Generation Choose where you want to apply the heat generation-- usually on areas for 2-D models, on volumes for 3-D models. Pick the desired entities in the graphics window. Then enter the heat generation values. Or use the BF family of commands: BFL, BFA, BFE, BF.
Training Manual
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Adiabatic Surfaces
Adiabatic Surfaces
Training Manual
Perfectly insulated surfaces where no heat transfer takes place. This is the default condition, i.e, any surface with no boundary conditions specified is automatically treated as an adiabatic surface
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Modifying and Deleting Loads

Modifying and Deleting Loads To modify a load value, simply reapply the load with the new value. To delete loads:
Main Menu > Solution > Define Loads > Delete When you delete solid model loads, ANSYS also automatically deletes all corresponding finite element loads.
Training Manual
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Solutions Options
Steady State vs. Transient Analysis
Training Manual
A steady state analysis assumes that the loading conditions have settled down to a steady level, with little or no time dependency. A transient analysis conditions that are changing with time. For example, consider the analysis of a clothes iron which takes 1 minute to reach a constant temperature
The analysis of the clothes iron for the first 1 minute of operation would be transient. After a constant temperature is reached, the analysis would be steady state.
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Review Results
temperature distribution thermal gradient distribution thermal flux distribution
Training Manual
Reviewing results of a thermal analysis generally involves:
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Review Results
Temperature Distribution: To plot temperature contours
General Postproc > Plot Results > Contour Plot > Nodal Solution > Temperature Or use the PLNSOL command.
Training Manual
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Review Results
Thermal Gradients: To plot thermal gradient contours:

Training Manual
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Review Results
Thermal Flux: To plot thermal gradient contours:

Training Manual
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Review Results
Reaction Forces
Training Manual
The sum of the reaction heat flows must balance the sum of the applied heat flows Best viewed as a listing:
General Postprocessor > List Results > Reaction Solution or PRRSOL command
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Verify Results
Training Manual
It is always a good idea to do a sanity check and make sure that the solution is acceptable. What you need to check depends on the type of problem you are solving, but here are some typical questions to ask: Do FEA results agree hand calculations or experimental data? Is the temperature solution correct? Check the FEA temperature solution first since FEA heat fluxes are second order results. Do the reaction heat flows balance the applied heat flows? Where is the maximum heat flux located?
If it is at a singularity, such as a point load or a re-entrant corner, the value is generally meaningless.
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Verify Results
Is the mesh adequate?
Training Manual
This is always debatable, but you can gain confidence in the mesh by using error estimation. Other ways to check mesh adequacy: Plot the element solution (unaveraged stresses) and look for elements with high heat flux gradients. These regions are candidates for mesh refinement. If there is a significant difference between the nodal (averaged) and element (unaveraged) heat flux contours, the mesh may be too coarse. Similarly, if there is a significant difference between PowerGraphics and full graphics heat flux, the mesh may be too coarse. Re-mesh with twice as many elements, re-solve, and compare the results. (But this may not always be practical.)
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Chapter 1

Introduction to ANSYS 7.1 - Part 1

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FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

To simulate designs that are not suitable for prototype testing

The bottom line:

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

A partial list of industries in which ANSYS is used:

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Other structural capabilities

Mode Shape Animation

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Impact Analysis of a Vehicle Crash Test

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Electric field (EFSUM) in a coaxial cable

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Velocity of Fluid in a Duct

Pressure Distribution on a Football

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Heat and Mass Transport

Chapter 2 - FEA and ANSYS

Chapter 3 The GUI

Utility Menu Input Line Raise/Hidden Icon

Command Window Icon Abbreviation Toolbar Menu Model Control Toolbar

User Prompt Info

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Chapter 3 The GUI

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Chapter 3 The GUI

After expanding Preprocessor Branch

Select to collapse Preprocessor Branch

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Chapter 3 The GUI

The option to expand the branch is displayed

Selecting Expand All expands the branch contents

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Chapter 3 The GUI

Abbreviation Toolbar Menu

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Chapter 3 The GUI

Icon Toolbar Menu

Pan-Zoom-Rotate Image Capture

Open ANSYS File Report Generator

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Chapter 3 The GUI

.Icon Toolbar Menu

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Chapter 3 The GUI

Select Raise/ Hidden Icon

Pan/Zoom/Rotate Widget Hidden Pan/Zoom/Rotate Widget Shown

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Chapter 3 The GUI

Click on the X to return the input to the toolbar.

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