Course
Practical Introduction to the Finite Element Method

The finite element method (FEM) has become a widely accepted analysis technique in the engineering industry. It 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 models today that seemed impossible a few years ago. This course provides a practical, software-independent introduction to help you use FEA efficiently and with confidence.

Course details

Training dates 2025
February 5–6–7, 2025
Duration
3 consecutive days
Location
Antwerp (BE)
Cost
1,525 euros (excluding VAT) – early bird price valid until January 11, 2025
1,695 euros (excluding VAT) – standard price from January 12, 2025
Language
Dutch
Cancellation policy
Up to two weeks before: no charge. From two weeks before: 50% of total cost. Less than five days before: full amount due.
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Why this course?

Discover the power of the finite element method and accelerate your learning process with our practical FEA training. This course is designed to equip technicians, engineers and designers with the necessary skills and knowledge to use this powerful analysis technique efficiently and with confidence. It 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 course for?

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

What will you learn?

  • 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.
  • How to efficiently start an FEM analysis and complete it successfully. You will learn to define a clear objective for each analysis and follow a road map to achieve the intended insight.

Benefits of the course

 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 utilise the capabilities of your software and hardware investments, minimizing learning costs and maximizing productivity.
 Avoid costly mistakes
Through our practical approach, with a large number of practical cases and a clear step-by-step plan, you will learn to avoid common pitfalls when using FEM. This saves time and resources, and prevents potentially costly design errors.
 Build confidence in your FEM results
Our course strengthens your ability to correctly interpret and validate FEM results. This builds confidence among your team in the reliability and accuracy of your design decisions, which is essential for successful projects.

Course programme

  • 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

Ready to master the Finite Element Method?

Register for the next session or get in touch if you have questions about the course content, schedule or group bookings.

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Need a professional Finite Element Analysis of your design? We also offer FEA consulting services for structural, thermal and dynamic problems.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about our Finite Element Method course.

Participants are required to have a basic knowledge of strength of materials. This prior knowledge is crucial for fully understanding and applying the concepts discussed during the course.

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

Yes. At the beginning of the course, all participants receive a printed version of the slides. In addition, the slides are 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.

Absolutely. 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.

Yes, we are ready to answer your questions both during and after the course. Please note that our courses are software-independent, so we are unable to provide support for questions specific to certain software packages.

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

All our courses are delivered by engineers who are experts in their respective fields. Each instructor brings at least 15 years of hands-on experience, ensuring a rich, in-depth learning experience grounded in real-world practice.

We understand that circumstances can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows: if cancelled up to two weeks before the course, no charge is incurred. If cancelled from two weeks before the start, 50% of the total cost is charged. If cancelled less than three days before the start, the full amount is due. Please inform us as soon as possible if you need to cancel, so we can potentially offer your spot to another participant. For cancellations, please contact us by email.

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