Finite Element Analysis Lab

7th SEMESTER

Submitted by Arqam Ahmad

Class / Section ME 12 C
CMS ID 334444
Submitted to LE Ibrahim Khan

School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering

 Abstract

The document demonstrates the FEM analysis on one problem

analyzed using COMSOL. This problem includes tapered cantilever
with two load cases. This model calculates the normal stress 𝜎𝑥𝑥
and shear stress 𝜏𝑥𝑦 and how to apply and evaluate different
boundary conditions acting on a cantilever beam.

Introduction

Introduction to FEA
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a powerful numerical technique that has revolutionized the field of
engineering and computational science. It serves as a virtual laboratory, enabling engineers and
researchers to simulate and analyze complex physical phenomena across various disciplines, from
structural mechanics and heat transfer to fluid dynamics and electromagnetics. FEA breaks down intricate
real-world systems into smaller, manageable elements, allowing for the accurate prediction of how these
systems will behave under different conditions. As a cornerstone of modern engineering design and
analysis, FEA empowers professionals to optimize structures, products, and processes, ultimately leading
to safer, more efficient, and cost-effective solutions in an ever-evolving technological landscape. In this
exploration of Finite Element Analysis, we delve into its principles, applications, and the profound impact
it has had on the way we conceive, design, and innovate in the world of engineering.

Introduction to Cantilever Beam

A cantilever beam is a type of structural element that is
commonly used in engineering and construction. It is a
beam that is supported at only one end, while the other end
is free to hang or extend in space. The supported end is
typically fixed in place, providing stability to the beam.
Cantilever beams are known for their strength and
versatility. They are often used in various applications such
as bridges, balconies, aircraft wings, and even diving boards.
The unique design of a cantilever beam allows it to support
a significant amount of weight and distribute it along its
length. One important characteristic of cantilever beams is their ability to withstand bending moments,
which is the force that causes the beam to bend or deform. This makes them suitable for situations where
a long span or overhang is required without the need for additional support in the middle.

Maximum deflection in Beam

For a cantilever beam:

𝑦𝐴 = 0, 𝜃𝐴 = 0

The moment acting on the beam is:

𝑀 = −𝐹𝑥

𝑑2 𝑦
𝐸𝐼 2 = −𝐹𝑥
𝑑𝑥
Integrating both sides:

𝑑𝑦 𝐹𝑥 2
𝐸𝐼 =− + 𝑐1 … … … (1)
𝑑𝑥 2
Using the boundary condition:
𝑑𝑦
𝜃𝐴 = ( ) =0
𝑑𝑥 𝐴
𝐹𝑙 2
𝐸𝐼(0) = − + 𝑐1
2
𝐹𝑙 2
𝑐1 =
2

Eq. (1) =>

𝑑𝑦 𝐹𝑥 2 𝐹𝑙 2
𝐸𝐼 =− +
𝑑𝑥 2 2
Integrating both sides:

𝐹𝑥 3 𝐹𝑙 2 𝑥
𝐸𝐼 𝑦(𝑥) = − + + 𝑐2 … … … (2)
6 2
Using the boundary condition:

𝑦𝐴 = 0
 𝐹𝑙 3 𝐹𝑙 3
𝐸𝐼(0) = − + + 𝑐2
6 2
𝐹𝑙 3
𝑐2 = −
3
Eq. (2) =>

𝐹𝑥 3 𝐹𝑙 2 𝑥 𝐹𝑙 3
𝐸𝐼 𝑦(𝑥) = − + −
6 2 3
The maximum deflection will be:

𝐹𝑙 3
𝐸𝐼 𝛿 = −
3
𝑭𝑳𝟑
𝜹=
𝟑𝑬𝑰

Methodology

The cantilever beam has a thickness

of 0.1 m, width of 4 m and is 4 m on
its long edge and 2 m on its short
edge. Two cases are considered. In
the first one a gravity load, 𝑚𝑔, acts
in the negative y direction with an
acceleration of 𝟗. 𝟖𝟏 𝒎/𝒔𝟐 . The left
end boundary is fully fixed (no displacements). In the second case gravity load is not present and instead
a uniformly distributed horizontal load, F, of 𝟏𝟎 𝑴𝑵/𝒎 acts along the right end. At the left end there is
no displacement in the x direction. Also, at a midpoint location the left end is fixed in the y direction. The
material as blank with the following properties:

Nature Isotropic
Young’s Modulus 210 𝐺𝑃𝑎
Poisson’s Ratio 0.3
Density 7000 𝑘𝑔/𝑚3

Two meshes were selected:

Extra fine

Normal
 Results and Discussion

Firstly, the results for normal stress distribution is shown below:

Figure 1: Normal Stress Contour

After that, we have plotted the shear stress of the system. For this we followed this: Add Predefined
Plot>Study 1/ Solution 1 (sol1)> Component 1 (comp1)>Solid Mechanics>Stress (Gauss points)> Stress
tensor, Gauss point evaluation (spatial frame) - N/m²>solid.sGpxy - Stress tensor, Gauss point
evaluation, xy-component.. The results are shown below:

Figure 2: Shear Stress Contour

Based on these contours, we obtained different answers for normal and shear stress at different mesh
size:
 Mesh Max Normal Stress 𝑁/𝑚2 Max Shear Stress 𝑵/𝒎𝟐
Normal 1.02 × 108 2420
Extra Fine 1.02 × 108 840

Now, for evaluating the normal stress and shear stress at vertices, use the concept of point evaluation
and type the following expressions:

Normal Stress Solid.sGpxx

Shear Stress Solid.sGpxy

Points Normal Stress (Load Case 1) Shear Stress (Load Case 2)

Point Evaluation FEA Point Evaluation FEA
Point 2 6.1381E7 6.0E7 -1.9901E5 -2.0E5
Point 4 8.8973E7 10.2E7 2391.5 2420
Point 5 8.8856E7 10.2E7 2418.8 2420

The table above shows that, apart from a few minor mistakes caused by reading the normal and shear
force contour plots, the values of normal and shear stress estimated using point evaluation and the
COMSOL Multiphysics structural mechanics solver are fairly similar to one another. From the convergence
of the mesh investigation, it was shown that the shear stress value does not converge when the mesh is
changed and instead fluctuates. This error may be the result of a boundary condition error or the solver's
tolerance, although it was impossible to determine in the lab.

Conclusion

The FEM analysis performed on the tapered cantilever undergoing various types of natural and essential
boundary conditions gives us an understanding regarding the displacement of individual vertices and
normal, shear stress. The contour plots for normal and shear stress followed by their point evaluation gives
an overall understanding of the structure’s deformity and the impact on the structure of the beam on
application of a body load when the frame is fixed from one end. Furthermore, we can say certainly that
the results from point evaluation and COMSOL are quite similar with just a small error.