Overview Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for non-engineers by: Michael Torres(Using Solid works 2013, other programs can vary)

A part is drawn in solid works or similar program.The green arrows are known as fixtures. They hold and don’t allow part to move at that point. The purple arrows relay where and in what direction a force is being placed.

Once the analysis is done it will show an image similar to this.

*Red does not necessarily mean bad

The colors show how much stress any section of the part is experiencing. On the right hand side, is a key showing the different ranges of intensity. Usually blues are low, greens middle and red high.

On the bottom right the yield strength represents the highest approximate amount of stress the material can handle

This is where a safety factor comes into play. This is found by dividing the yield strength by the highest stress the part experiences.

E.g.: S.F¿Yield Strength

Max Stress Experinced = 689,475,729.6 Pa ÷ 298,153,056.0 Pa = 2.31 (SI units)

The safety factor shows how far or close you are to reaching the failing point of the material.

Notice: This is a very brief overview. There is a lot of additional details and understanding necessary to properly run an FEA and interpret data