What is Finite Element Analysis?
Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computer-based technique to solve problems using numerical equations. The analysis includes a method based on creating a geometrical model of the structure that is discretised into individual nodes or elements. It offers insights into various engineering analysis that cannot be obtained using typical failure analysis methods.
FEA serves as an essential tool in failure analysis investigations that help determine the circumstances that led to failure and identify the failure mechanism itself. SEAM combines FEA with other in-house techniques during failure analysis investigations.
Computed Tomography based Finite Element Analysis
FEA can be used to simulate an actual component geometry as scanned by X-Ray Micro-computed Tomography (XMT). This is used to gain an insight into how the real component performs under operational loading as opposed to the idealised design geometry and how this affects component failure. Understanding the circumstances leading to a failure enables targeted modifications in design, manufacturing, or in-service conditions to eliminate or reduce future failure rates.
