Non-Linear Analysis in Abaqus: When and Why?

Advanced Finite Element (FE) Modelling has become a more prevalent tool in both the design and/or assessment of new products and structures or the justification of existing items subject to new loading conditions. Linear analysis is now the norm in design and the demand on the structure/item is calculated and assessed against the elastic limiting feature.

However, in some cases, particularly with existing items of plant and equipment or existing structures, this elastic limiting feature cannot be readily changed or retrofitted without significant cost. Therefore, non-linear FE assessment is required to better understand the behaviour, possibly remove conservatisms, and in some cases, demonstrate that some plastic behaviour (slip, separation or deformation) is acceptable.

The presentation details a selection of examples where non-linear analysis (contact, loading or materials) has been adopted and ultimately demonstrated that an item is acceptable. In all the examples presented, the adoption of non-linear analyses demonstrated the safety of the system and saved the client significant costs.