What is Fatigue Analysis?
Fatigue simulations are a critical component in assessing the durability and lifespan of materials and structures. It involves predicting how repeated stresses and strains can lead to material fatigue, ultimately causing failure over time.
Fatigue analyses are often compared to code assessments, which are more traditional methods of evaluating fatigue life. Unlike traditional code-based assessments, fatigue analysis employs advanced simulation techniques to provide a more comprehensive understanding of material behavior under real-world conditions.
The role of fatigue analysis in product development
Modern engineering demands solutions that not only meet performance requirements but also withstand the rigors of repeated use over time. Fatigue analysis bridges this gap by simulating the effects of cyclic loading on materials and structures, enabling engineers to identify potential failure points before they occur.
By integrating fatigue analysis into the design process, engineers gain valuable insights into material performance under diverse conditions. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of unexpected failures, reduces costs associated with recalls or repairs, and supports the development of innovative products that meet stringent industry standards.
What are the benefits of fatigue analysis?
Fatigue simulations are categorized into different types based on the nature of the loading conditions and the expected fatigue failure. Each type of fatigue analysis offers unique benefits in predicting and preventing potential failure points, ensuring products meet safety standards and perform reliably throughout their lifecycle.
S-N stress-life method
This method is ideal for high-cycle fatigue scenarios, this method helps engineers evaluate the durability of components experiencing repeated, low-stress cycles. It ensures safety by identifying failure thresholds in materials that remain within their elastic limits.
E-N strain-life method
Suitable for low-cycle fatigue, this method is used when some stresses exceed the elastic limit of the material. By analyzing strain behavior under high-stress conditions, it enables engineers to design components that can withstand extreme loads without compromising reliability.
LEFM (linear elastic fracture mechanics)
Focuses on crack propagation in brittle materials, offering precise insights into how cracks will grow under cyclic loading. This method enhances safety by predicting critical crack lengths and preventing catastrophic failures.
Random load fatigue
This type deals with complex load scenarios where the stress history involves random loads. It uses advanced evaluation techniques like the Cumulative Damage feature to quantify the stress response. This ensures reliability even under dynamic and irregular conditions.
What’s the best way to get started with fatigue analysis?
Fatigue analysis is a highly complex process that requires precise modeling, accurate material data, and advanced simulation techniques to predict how cyclic stresses impact a structure’s lifespan. Employing the appropriate expertise is crucial, as errors in methodology or interpretation can lead to inaccurate predictions, costly failures, or safety risks.
Keep reading for our recommended approach to fatigue analysis, or reach out to us for a free fatigue analysis consultation today.
Identify key objectives such as expected lifespan, loading conditions, and environmental factors influencing material behavior.
Choose a suitable fatigue analysis method based on factors like stress levels (elastic vs. plastic), load complexity, and material properties.
Create an FEM with precise meshing to capture stress gradients accurately while balancing computational efficiency.
Simulate real-world operating conditions using load histories derived from field data or experimental testing.
Interpret simulation results to pinpoint areas of concern and implement design improvements to enhance durability.
Need help with Fatigue analysis?
Johan Kolfors and team are on-hand to provide tailored guidance and support with a deep knowledge of the full Dassault Systèmes portfolio. Reach out for a free consultation today.
Essential software for fatigue analysis
fe-safe
For predicting fatigue life and optimizing designs for durability.
Abaqus
For advanced engineering simulations and comprehensive analyses.
For the structural analysis and design of bridges and civil structures.
View our extensive range of software solutions