ARE YOU NEW to FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS?
We’ve Got You Covered!
You probably have a few questions and concerns:
Is FEA Reliable? Can I Trust the Results?
The best insurance against errors in Finite Element Analysis – or any other branch of engineering – is by employing experienced professionals. And not just experienced pros in using the FEA programs, but in engineering in general.
As with any computer program, FEA programs do what they’re told. Every engineer can relate a time when they overlooked something like in an incorrect number. Ora slipped a decimal point. There are a hundred ways to generate bad FEA results. The experienced analyst/engineer has a detailed checklist he/she goes over when putting together a finite element analysis. This person knows by instinct generated by the hundreds of analyses he has worked on when something is amiss. The less- experienced person will lack thoroughness. The less-experienced person may be more in awe of the colorful images on the screen and satisfied that the analysis ran to completion.
I Have Heard It’s Very Expensive
Cost is in direct proportion to the level of complexity in the analysis. The experienced analyst will know how much he can simplify the task without jeopardizing the results. Some analyses can be very demanding and requiring a high level of complexity. Our job is to design the task to get the best result for the lowest cost.
Analysis Vs Testing
In many cases, analysis substitutes for testing. In this respect, the expense of a good analysis may significantly reduce testing costs. Good engineering practice requires confirmation testing. But, the number of design and test cycles are reduced. This results in greatly reducing costs for a relatively small amount of money spent on finite element analysis.
Can I Get a Fixed Quote?
The short answer: YES! We have been through the steps involved in generating a good analysis many times. We will provide a fixed quote along with a detailed Statement of Work.
Do I Need a Special CAD Model?
No. Any current CAD package can generate the files needed.
IF you do not have a 3D CAD model, I can generate one from drawings or sketches.
I Had a Bad Experience With a Low-Priced Shop. How Are You Different?
Cut-Rate “Analysts”
I have seen the results of “analysts” from countries like Africa, India, China and several other countries- including the United States! – who work at ridiculously low rates claiming expert status. All the analysis reports were very superficial. Some of them claimed to have spotted design problems, Many times these “problems” do not exist. When called on it, the cut-rate company may respond with an excuse for the bad information.
The analysis may be redone showing that no problem actually existed. Sorry guys, we blew it! How much confidence would you put in the results? Would you base a manufactured product on analysis from such a company?
Low Rates Can be very Temping!
The low rates are very seductive. Cutting corners at this stage of a product development or design change could lead to huge expenses later on.
Norman T. Neher, P.E.
Analytical Engineering Services, Inc.
Elko New Market, MN
www.aesmn.org