STRESS ANALYSIS

The use of the stress analysis started to grow significantly with the increase of the computers' processing capacity.

The stress analysis is very useful specially on those cases which there are no precise analytical ways for stress and deformation determination, due to the complexity of the geometry or loading. In some cases, the finite element stress analysis allows optimization of thicknesses and weight reductions (for example heat exchanger tubesheets, flanges  and nozzles in spherical pressure vessels). Besides, this method allows the visualization of the behavior of the component, which is useful for design optimization.

Today more and more complex components and equipments are being designed using the stress analysis method ("design by analysis").

USE

Any material or component can be analyzed, as long as its mechanical property (modulus of elasticity) is known. TRESCA already analyzed components made of steel and other metals, fiberglass reinforced plastic, polymers, rubber, cast iron and wood.
The method is applicable in calculation of stress, deformation, temperature distribution, thermal stress and vibration; dynamic response to random, seismic or harmonic excitation and plastic deformation by plasticity or creep.
In some cases, a non-linear analysis is made in order to study the deformation effect on the structure response and buckling analysis (elastic instability)
The stresses found are then compared, according to the case, with the allowable stresses, or the remaining life in fatigue or creep is calculated. 

With the stresses found in the finite element analysis, a remaining life calculation or the limit operating condition of the component can be calculated. If the analysis is made during the design, is possible to optimize it, reducing its cost and increasing the operating capacity and remaining life.
If the product is moulded, it is possible to save on the mould cost and experimental samples. The analysis also replaces resistance and durability tests.