Introduction to the Finite Element Analysis of O-Ring Seal Joint

O-rings are doughnut-shaped fluid sealing elements used in machines. These are typically made from an elastomer, but other materials such as thermoplastics and even metals and composites of various materials are used especially for high-temperature environments. The seal is formed when the O-ring is compressed or squeezed between two adjacent surfaces of the joint. The […]

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Finite Element Models of Varying Fidelity

Models of various fidelity can be used for analyzing structures or any physical system. The decision is made based on desired results as well as computational resources available. In this blog, I’ll compare finite element models of varying fidelity using ANSYS finite element analysis software. The example used for comparison is a simple tubular, cantilever […]

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Validating FEA Results

The purpose of this article is to post-process and understand FEA results by comparing with standard text book theory and hand calculations. I will use the example of a cantilever I-beam loaded by a point force at the end. Simple hand calculations based on fundamental equations of solid mechanics is the best way to validate finite […]

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