FEA and MoldFlow Analysis
FEA is a powerful tool that appeals to the visual senses.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is the simulation of any given physical phenomenon using a numerical technique called the Finite Element Method (FEM). Engineers use it to reduce the number of physical prototypes and experiments and to optimize components in their design phase to develop better products faster, while saving on expenses. With forensic engineering, FEA is used for confirming the location of stress concentrations and visually showing alternative designs that would reduce stress concentrations. The simulations from FEA let you see where the stresses are and predict/confirm the point of failure. FEA can also be used to analyze fatigue-related failures that occur over a period of time due to the cyclic loading of the component.
Moldflow Analysis
The details of injection molding plastic are difficult to visualize. Moldflow analysis creates impressive graphics and animations that show the flow of plastic in an injection mold. The use of moldflow analysis helps to understand failures related to injection molding design and manufacturing, such as gate location, parting line location, design geometry, material flow, fiber alignment, vent locations, weld-line analysis, and cooling-line locations. All of these design considerations affect the strength and lifespan of a part.