Course
Practical introduction to the finite element method

 Register  Download pdf Izegem  Download pdf Mechelen

Course series 1
23–24–25 April 2024
Course duration
3 consecutive days
Location
Izegem (BE)
Price
1.525 euro (excl. VAT) – price valid until March 22, 2024
1.695 euro (excl. VAT) – price valid from March 23, 2024
Language
Dutch

Course series 2
10–11–12 June 2024
Course duration
3 consecutive days
Location
Mechelen (BE)
Price
1.525 euro (excl. VAT) – price valid until May 9, 2024
1.695 euro (excl. VAT) – price valid from May 10, 2024
Language
Dutch

The finite element method (FEM) has become a widely accepted analysis technique in the industry in recent years. The finite element method is a powerful computational technique for obtaining solutions to complex structural and mechanical problems. Technological advances in both software and hardware allow us to analyse complex models today that seemed impossible a few years ago.

Why this training?

Discover the power of the finite element method and accelerate your learning process with our leading Practical introduction to the finite element method training. This training is designed to equip technicians, engineers and designers with the necessary skills and knowledge to use this powerful analysis technique efficiently and with confidence. Our course offers a unique combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, allowing you to acquire the competencies of years of experience in a short time.

Who is this training for?

This course is intended for anyone who wants to start and delve deeper into the extensive possibilities of the finite element method, regardless of the software used. Whether you want to optimize your products, simulate virtual prototypes, or accelerate the design process, this course offers you many direct benefits.

What will your learn during this course?

  • The basic principles of the finite element method, with a strong focus on practical applications.
  • How to choose from a wide range of element types, solutions, meshing methods and pre- and post-processing options.
  • The correct setup of computational models and the validation of results to ensure reliable and qualified outcomes.
  • The course provides an excellent guide on how to efficiently start an FEM analysis and teaches you to complete the task successfully. You will learn to define a clear objective for each analysis and will be provided with a road map to achieve this objective and the intended insight.

Benefits of the training

 Software independent
You will learn the fundamentals and basic techniques of the FEM independent of the type of commercial software you use.
 Accelerated learning process and accurate results
Shorten the time needed to master the finite element method. You will learn how to perform complex analyses faster and with greater precision, resulting in better design decisions and a more efficient design process.
 Make your investment pay-off more quickly
The investment in this training pays off quickly. You will learn how to utilize the capabilities of your software and hardware investments, thereby minimizing the costs associated with the learning process and maximizing productivity.
 Avoid costly mistakes
Through our practical approach, with a large number of practical cases and following a clear step-by-step plan, you will learn to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes when using the FEM. This saves not only time and resources, but also prevents potentially costly design errors.
 Build confidence in your FEM results
Our course strengthens your ability to correctly interpret and validate the results of FEM analyses. This builds confidence among your team in the reliability and accuracy of your design decisions, which is essential for successful projects.

Content of the course

  • History and background of the finite element method
  • Introduction to matrix calculations
  • Brush up of the fundamental concepts in strength of materials and stress analysis
  • The finite element procedure
    • Force versus displacement method
    • Description of simple element stiffness matrices
  • Overview of element types and their applications
    • 0D, 1D, 2D and 3D elements
    • Shape functions
    • Linear versus quadratic elements
  • Boundary conditions
    • Constraints (SPC)
    • Loads
  • Modelling and meshing
    • Simplifying the geometry
    • Symmetry
    • Meshing
    • Mid-surfaces
    • Sub-modelling
  • Assembly modelling
    • Contact
    • Multi-Point Constraints (MPC)
    • R-type connections
    • Bolted joints
    • Welded joints
  • Material modelling
    • Material models
    • Material properties
    • Material yielding and plastic deformation
  • Stress check in the post-processor
    • Stress evaluation
    • Integration points
    • Averaged versus unaveraged stresses
    • Mesh independent stress results
    • Singularities
  • Failure models
    • Modes of material failure
    • Introduction to static failure
    • Overview of failure theories
    • Criteria for ductile materials
    • Criteria for brittle materials
    • How to use the right failure model?
  • FEA model checks
    • Road map for FEA results check
  • FEA best practices
  • Introduction to non-linear analysis
  • Introduction to dynamic analysis
  • Introduction to fatigue analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of prior knowledge is expected from participants?

For this specific course, participants are required to have a basic knowledge of strength of materials. This prior knowledge is crucial for fully understanding and applying the advanced concepts discussed during the course.

What materials or equipment will I need?

Pen and paper are sufficient. A laptop may be brought, but is not necessary.

Is a syllabus provided?

At the beginning of the course, all students will receive a printed version of the slides. In addition, the slides will also be sent as a PDF file to each participant. This PDF is a personal copy, named for each participant, and is intended for individual use only.

Can questions be asked during the course?

Absolutely, asking questions during the course is highly encouraged. We believe in an interactive learning environment where both participants and instructors can learn from each other. Your questions contribute to a richer learning experience for everyone.

Is support available during or after the course?

We are ready to answer all your questions, both during and after the course. However, please note that our courses are designed to be software-independent. Therefore, we are unable to provide support for questions that are specific to certain software packages.

Do participants receive a certificate upon completion of the course?

Yes. Participants will receive a certificate of participation at the end of the course.

Who conducts the course?

All our courses are delivered by engineers who are experts in their respective fields. Each instructor brings at least 15 years of experience, ensuring a rich, in-depth learning experience. Our team of trainers is dedicated to sharing their knowledge and expertise, thus equipping every participant with the skills and insights necessary for success.

Are classroom courses also available as online courses?

Not yet, but over the course of 2024, all our courses will become accessible through our advanced online learning platform. This offers our participants the flexibility to learn in a way that best suits their lifestyle. For more information about our online courses, or if you have suggestions for other courses you would like to see online, we invite you to contact us via email us. We look forward to supporting you in your learning journey!

What is the cancellation policy?

We understand that circumstances can change unexpectedly. To accommodate the needs of all participants and meet our organizational commitments, we adhere to the following cancellation policy:

  • If cancelled up to two weeks before the course, no charge will be incurred.
  • If cancelled from two weeks before the start of the course, 50% of the total cost will be charged.
  • If cancelled less than three days before the start of the course, the full amount is due.

We advise you to inform us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your registration. This allows us to potentially offer your spot to another interested participant. For cancellations or more information, please contact us via email us.

What are the payment terms?

The invoice for the course will be sent two weeks before the start of the course. Invoices must be paid within 30 days of the invoice date.