Finite Element Analysis

Publications

Vehicle Impact With Curb-and-Guardrail Systems

This paper uses finite element analysis with the LS-DYNA program to simulate and analyze vehicle impacts on various curb-and-guardrail systems. The analysis investigates how factors like curb type, placement, and vehicle speed affect safety outcomes such as vehicle redirection, stability, and occupant risk, informing future design guidelines.

Mechanical Assessment of the Waste Package Subject to Vibratory Motion

Department of Energy

This paper summarizes a series of finite element analyses to assess the mechanical performance of a waste package under vibratory ground motion. The simulations predict potential damage, such as residual stress in the outer shell and buckling of internal fuel rods, to support long-term safety assessments.

Structural Analyses of the Storage Container for Heavy Element Facility, BuiI-251

Dorothy .S. Ng

This paper applies finite element analysis to evaluate the structural performance of nuclear material storage containers under accidental drop scenarios. The analyses identify potential compromise of the hermetic seal and provide engineering recommendations to enhance containment safety.

Nonlinear Seismic Analysis of Morrow Point Dam

Charles R. Noble, Larry K. Nuss

This paper applies nonlinear finite element analysis to evaluate the seismic performance of Morrow Point Dam. By modeling contraction joints, foundation flexibility, and reservoir interaction, the study identifies critical behaviors under earthquake loading and demonstrates the robustness of finite element methods for dam safety assessment.

Performance of W-Beam Splices

Malcolm H. Ray, Chuck A. Plaxico, Klas Engestrand

This paper uses finite element analysis to investigate the failure of W-beam guardrail splices, showing that complex multi-axial strains at post locations, rather than simple axial tension, are the primary cause of rupture. The analysis helped to identify a design solution: relocating splices to mid-span.