The Development of a Thermal Distortion Code Using the Finite Element Method

Abstract

A finite element code to account for thermal expansion in a solid was developed for the Independent Research and Independent Exploratory Development project 'Tribology of Sliding Surface Bearings.' The program is based on a two- demensional model using a second, or higher order interpolation function in the element space that will allow a diverse temperature field, such as a steep, nonlinear temperature gradient, to be prescribed in a solid body. The computer code has a definite advantage over certain finite element systems, commercially available. Many accept only a constant, or averaged temperature input into their element space. With the new capabilities, complex thermal mechanical responses under severe temperature gradients can be readily analyzed. For instance, the hot spot in a ship's landing deck due to the concentrated heat load, such as those generated by high temperature jet exhaust, can be more realistically represented by the elements of current development. The element mesh size and the input data set are more manageable.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1982
Accession Number
ADA116868

Entities

People

  • James H. Ma

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Cantilever Beams
  • Coefficients
  • Elastic Properties
  • Equations
  • Geometry
  • Heat Energy
  • High Temperature
  • Lubrication
  • Materials
  • Modulus Of Elasticity
  • Shape
  • Ship Decks
  • Stiffness
  • Structural Response
  • Temperature Gradients
  • Thrust Bearings
  • Tribology

Readers

  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Structural Dynamics.
  • Thermal Physics or Thermal Science.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster