A Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a form of non-destructive testing (NDT) that shows how your part reacts to real-world loading events. A common example is running an FEA on a support bracket. The FEA will give results showing how much the bracket deflects, how much reactive force is seen, and the kind of internal stresses the bracket experiences.

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FEA results will change dramatically based on the position and angle of the load, how much force is applied, the material properties of the part, and the design of the part itself.

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An FEA is used to optimize a part before manufacturing begins. It allows you to find weak points within your part or assembly, and it will predict a failure before you physically make anything. This gives you an opportunity to fine-tune each part to optimize its size, strength, and cost before you start producing it.

The more information we have, the more accurate the simulation results will be. It also depends on what type of simulation you want to run. For a simple FEA, we can run an accurate simulation with just a 3D CAD model and loading/force/pressure information that you want to simulate.

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Don’t have a 3D model? Not a problem, our team can make one for you from scratch, and then run an FEA on it.

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For a more detailed answer, a well-run FEA will need:

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• Material properties: What material is the part made out of? We can run different FEAs with different materials to help you pick the right one.

• Loading conditions: The size, location, and type of load you want to simulate.

• Bonding condition: How is the part held in place? Is it bolted, welded, or just sitting on a tabletop?

• A 3D model

• For other simulations: Please provide us with all thermal, dynamic, aero, and/or fluid flow information. Feel free to call us and we’ll walk you through what we need.