Description
This course provides an in-depth introduction to nonlinear finite element analysis using MSC Nastran SOL 400. Participants will learn how to identify and model different types of nonlinear behaviours, including geometric nonlinearities, contact, material plasticity, and advanced material failure mechanisms. The course focuses on the practical aspects of setting up, solving, and interpreting nonlinear analyses, with emphasis on robust model development and effective troubleshooting strategies.
Through course notes and practical examples, participants will explore nonlinear solution methods, incremental solution procedures, convergence behaviour, and best practices for achieving reliable results. The course also covers solver selection, parallel processing options, and techniques for diagnosing and resolving failed nonlinear analyses. The course is complemented by MSC Apex and Patran as the main pre-and-post processor.
Topics Covered
- Intro to Nastran SOL 400 and its capabilities
- Types of Nonlinearities
- Iterative Convergence Methods
- Nonlinear Incremental Solution Procedures
- NLSTEP bulk data entry
- Convergence criteria
- Geometric Nonlinearity and Buckling Methods: Example model
- Interpreting Results from Nonlinear Analyses: Example model
- Contact Modelling and Best Practices
- Solver Choice and Parallel Analysis Options
- Elastomer and Metal Plasticity Material Models
- Advanced Material Nonlinear Analysis (failure, damage, etc.)
- Diagnosing a Failing Nonlinear Analysis
What You’ll Learn
- Understand the capabilities and applications of MSC Nastran SOL 400 for nonlinear analysis
- Identify different types of nonlinearities and determine appropriate modeling approaches
- Understand nonlinear solution procedures, iterative methods, and convergence criteria
- Define and manage nonlinear analysis parameters using the NLSTEP bulk data entry
- Model geometric nonlinearities and nonlinear buckling behavior
- Set up and evaluate contact models using recommended best practices
- Apply elastomer, metal plasticity, and advanced material failure/damage models
- Select appropriate solver settings and parallel analysis options
- Interpret nonlinear analysis results and assess model behaviour
- Diagnose and resolve common convergence and solver issues in nonlinear simulations
Target Audience
- Mechanical, aerospace, automotive, and structural engineers
- CAE analysts performing advanced finite element simulations
- Engineers involved in nonlinear structural analysis and simulation validation
- MSC Nastran users looking to expand from linear to nonlinear analysis capabilities
Prerequisites
Participants should have an understanding of linear static analysis, advanced MSC Nastran modelling techniques, and normal modes analysis. Practical experience with linear finite element modelling is recommended.