Ansys Learning Forum › Forums › Discuss Simulation › General Mechanical › Random Vibration fatigue analysis of a bolted Joint › Reply To: Random Vibration fatigue analysis of a bolted Joint
Hello,
Performing a random vibration analysis on bolts modeled as line bodies works, but it depends on your specific analysis goal. Line bodies or beam elements are highly efficient and are mainly used when the primary interest is not the stress distribution in the bolts but the overall behavior of the assembly under a certain load, including vibrational loads. They save computational time and resources, but have limitations, such as the inability to calculate shear stress and a reduced number of stress components (only 3 as opposed to 6 in 3D solids). Therefore, if the study’s objective is to assess the performance of the assembly as a whole under random vibration, using beam elements to represent the bolt could be suitable.
However, I understand that you need precise stress or strain information at the bolts during vibration, so using 3D solid elements would be recommended. Check these two courses Modeling the Bolt and Preload | Ansys Innovation Courses , Connecting Bolts with the Rest of an Assembly | Ansys Courses to understand how bolts are simulated.
Also, I think inserting the Fatigue Tool on your already extistent PSD modulus is a good idea, providing that you have modeled your bolts correctlly and you get as detailed results as you need.
Hope this helps
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