IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

Unified Element Approach: Exploring Beam Elements for Bar and Truss Problems in Finite Element Analysis

Main Article Content

D V A Rama Sastry

Abstract

The conventional approach in finite element analysis involves utilizing a two-node link element to solve bar and truss problems within CAE software like ANSYS. These 3-D link elements, each comprising three Degrees of Freedom (DOF) – translations in the x, y, and z directions – present a standard methodology. Conversely, addressing beam structures involves employing a two-node beam element that encompasses six DOF (3 Translations + 3 Rotations). However, employing different elements for distinct structures (as noted above) often leads to confusion and challenges in both theoretical understanding and practical implementation within finite element CAE packages. This study endeavors to address this challenge by exploring the use of beam elements to solve bar and truss problems, leveraging the inherent DOF of beam elements. Through the utilization of finite element simulation software, this research delves into employing ANSYS library elements: Link 180 and Beam 188. The feasibility of utilizing beam elements for both bar and truss problems was scrutinized across three different structures: stepped bar, plane truss, and space truss. Static structural and modal analysis cases were considered for assessment. Analysis of the obtained results revealed that, with certain assumptions, the beam element could effectively substitute the link element in static structural and modal analysis scenarios. This observation suggests the potential for a convenient replacement of link elements with beam elements, offering a more unified approach in finite element analysis for bar and truss problems

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