Why Do Finite Element Analysis?
First Published – 1994 Softback 34 pages This book describes the capabilities of finite element analysis (FEA). The aim is to help the reader to decide whether analysis, and particularly FEA, is worthwhile in his/her business. It is assumed that the reader has little knowledge of the FE technique, but has an overview of the analysis for which it might be used. The FE method has been used with great success to solve many types of problems including: • Stress analysis • Dynamic analysis • Heat transfer Various applications will be described in this booklet, but the level of detail for each will reflect its relative usage. The argument for and against the use of FEA will be based mainly upon stress analysis, since this is by far the most common application. During the 1970’s FEA was introduced to manufacturing industry mainly by computer bureau, whose prime interest was in selling computer time. In their enthusiasm to introduce a new technique, its limitations were sometimes glossed over.
