The use of finite element analysis (FEA) has become common in recent years and is now the basis for most engineering designs. Numerical solutions to very complicated stress problems can now be readily obtained using FEA.

Deacon Engineers understands the importance of FEA and recognises that the accuracy of any modelling and solutions is fundamentally reliant on the experience and knowledge of the analyst. Years of practical design and manufacturing experience, combined with extensive use of FEA, enable us to provide unique pragmatic solutions.

Our FEA services utilise ANSYS, Strand7 and SPACE GASS software, and include:

  • Linear and non-linear static analysis
  • Buckling analysis
  • Spectral and harmonic response analysis
  • Linear and non-linear steady-state and transient heat transfer analysis
  • Transient dynamic behaviour analysis
  • Fatigue life estimation

Fatigue Analysis
Deacon Engineers is able to take design solutions to accurate and confident levels with the help of fe-safe fatigue analysis software. With fe-safe and our finite element models, we are able to:

Predict when fatigue cracks will initiate
Predict where fatigue cracks will occur
Predict whether cracks will propagate
Process measured strain gauge data
Apply actual load data to existing and future design simulations
This is done by using advanced methods including:

Uni-axial strain and stress life methods
Bi-axial strain and stress life methods
Vibration fatigue
Fatigue analysis of welded joints to BS7608 including the utilisation of critical plane analysis
Fatigue analysis of welded joints using the Verity® structural stress method
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Strain Gauging
When proceeding with any engineering design analysis, it is vital to understand the stresses borne by the components of the equipment being analysed. Surface strain - the change in length of surface material fibres under load - can be readily measured and converted to material stress. This data can then be used to generate meaningful solutions for equipment repairs, upgrades, redesigns and optimisations where performance does not compromise safety.

Project Photos

Strain gauge installation on rotating equipment to verify calculated results.

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Dynamic Analysis
Dynamic analysis determines the response of structures and equipment that are in motion as a result of applied forces. It is carried out when loading is time-dependant, or when inertial forces (forces associated with the motion of a body) have to be considered. Dynamic Analysis can typically determine the response of a vibrating feeder and crusher structure to ensure that the vibration levels are kept to acceptable levels.

We utilise ANSYS and Strand7 for our analyses which include:

Transient dynamic analysis including shock and impact loading
Natural frequency analysis
Harmonic response
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Fracture Mechanics Assessments
Fracture mechanics is used in engineering to establish acceptance levels for flaws revealed by the use of non-destructive examination techniques. This in turn leads to the concept of fitness for purpose. A mechanical structure is considered adequate for its purpose as long as the conditions to cause its failure are not reached. Deacon Engineers have the expertise to carry out flaw assessments on a fitness for purpose basis by offering post-crack initiation study services.

We have the expertise to carry out the following post-crack-initiation studies:

Stress intensity factor calculation
Fatigue crack growth rate calculation
Critical crack size determination
Crack path prediction
Residual strength calculation
Contact load redistribution during crack growth
Incorporation of effects of thermal stresses in crack growth simulation