FEA Performance Predictions and Some Key Definitions

Accuracy The ability of the FEA to predict actual behavior, mainly affected by the quality of model inputs, mesh refinement, and others. 

Convergence Technique for obtaining greater accuracy from an FEA by iteratively refining the mesh in areas of greatest concern until outputs stabilize. 

Isotropic In FEA, this concept is assumed. It is a material that has the same strength in all directions (as opposed to anisotropic materials). 

Modulus of elasticity (E) Also known as Young s modulus, a numerical constant unique to each material that describes the elastic properties of the material when loaded in the compression or in tension. 

Poisson ratio The ratio of transverse contraction strain to longitudinal extension strain in a stretched bar. The maximum possible value is 0.5 (around 0.5 for rubber, 0.33 for aluminum, 0.28 for common steels, and 0.1-0.4 for polymer foams). 

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