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Step 9: Validate the results

Theoretical Results

We will compare the solution obtained with ANSYS with the expected theoretical values.

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As we can see, the value for the approach obtained with ANSYS compares well with the theoretical value (less than 3% variation). The max principal stress also compares well with the theoretical value (less than 6% variation).

Refine Mesh

We will repeat the calculations on a mesh with a refined element size level near the point of contact to check the validity of the solution.

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This brings up the Refine Mesh at keypoint menu. This menu allows us to select the level of refinement we want to achieve. We'll use the minimal option of 1(Minimal), which is the default. Click OK.

 
The mesh is now refined around the selected nodes.

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The new value obtained for the approach is the same as the theoretical value. Also, the new value for the max principal stress varies by less than 2% with respect to the theoretical value. This indicates that even though both meshes provide adequate resolution, the finer mesh generates more accurate results.

Exit ANSYS

Utility Menu > File > Exit

Select Save Everything and click OK.

Reference

Boresi, A.P., and Schmidt, R.J., Advanced Mechanics of Materials, Sixth Edition, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 2003.

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