Syllabus - Finite Element Method (RM 504 (B))

Introduction to Finite Element Method

General steps of the finite element method. Engineering applications of finite element method. Advantages of the Finite Element Method. Boundary conditions: Homogeneous and non-homogeneous for structural, heat transfer and fluid flow problems. Potential energy method, Rayleigh Ritz method, Galerkin’s method, Displacement method of finite element formulation. Convergence criteria, Discretisation process Types of elements:1D, 2D and 3D, Node numbering, Location of nodes. Strain-displacement relations, Stress-strain relations, Plain stress and Plain strain conditions, temperature effects. Interpolation models: Simplex, complex and multiplex elements, linear interpolation polynomials in terms of global coordinates 1D, 2D, 3D Simplex Elements.

Introduction to Stiffness Method

Introduction, Derivation of stiffness matrix, Derivation of stiffness matrix for a spring element, Assembly the total stiffness matrix by superposition. One-Dimensional Elements-Analysis of Bars and Trusses, Linear interpolation polynomials in terms of local coordinate’s for1D, 2Delements. Higher order interpolation functions for 1D quadratic and cubic elements in natural coordinates, Constant strain triangle, Four-Nodded Tetrahedral Element (TET 4), Eight-Nodded Hexahedral Element (HEXA 3 8), 2D iso-parametric element, Lagrange interpolation functions. Numerical integration: Gaussian quadrature one point, two point formulae, 2D integrals. Force terms: Body force, traction force and point loads, Numerical Problems: Solution for displacement, stress and strain in 1D straight bars, stepped bars and tapered bars using elimination approach and penalty approach,

Beams and Shafts

Boundary conditions, Load vector, Hermite shape functions, Beam stiffness matrix based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, Examples on cantilever beams, propped cantilever beams, Numerical problems on simply supported, fixed straight and stepped beams using direct stiffness method with concentrated and uniformly distributed load. Torsion of Shafts: Finite element formulation of shafts, determination of stress and twists in circular shafts.

Heat Transfer

Basic equations of heat transfer: Energy balance equation, Rate equation: conduction, convection, radiation, 1D finite element formulation using vibration method, Problems with temperature gradient and heat fluxes, heat transfer in composite sections, straight fins.

Fluid Flow

Flow through a porous medium, Flow through pipes of uniform and stepped sections, Flow through hydraulic net works.

Axi-symmetric Solid Elements