Stress analysis using BEM as support for fatigue life prediction in the automotive industry
by Ricardo R. Magalhaes; Cristiano H.O. Fontes; Silvio A.B. Vieira de Melo
International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing (IJVSMT), Vol. 8, No. 1, 2013

Abstract: Fractures prediction of automotive components through the application of dynamic loads is used to estimate the fatigue life of these components. Numerical methods together with experimental data can provide accurate predictions and also support changes in the component design. The boundary element method (BEM) is a consolidated numerical technique used in the analysis of structural problems in several applications but its use in the automotive industry is not widespread. This work presents a procedure for estimating the fatigue life of automotive components under dynamic loads while considering the effect of geometric changes on them. BEM was applied as an efficient simulation tool to support the design change proposed for the part analysed and also provided an alternative for predicting stresses distribution. Fatigue life prediction obtained from the strain gauge signals was consistent with the results provided by the durability tests performed to verify component functionality including the appearance of fractures.

Online publication date: Sat, 19-Jul-2014

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Vehicle Systems Modelling and Testing (IJVSMT):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com