Idealizing quasi-axisymmetric 3D geometries to 2D-axisymmetric finite element models

Abstract

This paper describes an innovative methodology which automatically creates a 2D-axisymmetric finite element (FE) model of a quasi-axisymmetric component from its 3D CAD model. The process has been implemented as a script and uses the API to a commercial FE package. The calculation of a volume shape coefficients to be applied in the non-axisymmetric regions of the FE model, to account for the fact the region is not fully axisymmetric, is also described. In the paper, the methodology is demonstrated for a rotating blade of tapered profile analyzing and comparing both stresses and displacement. Excellent results are shown.