A Comprehensive Guide to Performing Buckling Analysis in SolidWorks

Welcome back to our blog series on FEA Simulation using SolidWorks. In this post, we’ll dive into a crucial topic—buckling analysis—and walk through how to improve the buckling factor of safety for a bracket using SolidWorks FEA analysis. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the basic steps in FEA and how to approach this type of simulation using finite element method mesh techniques. 

Let’s get started! 

 What is Buckling Analysis? 

Buckling analysis is essential for determining how structures behave under compressive forces. When a structure is subjected to a load, it may buckle or collapse if the load exceeds a critical value. The buckling factor of safety is a key measure used to ensure that a design can handle the loads without experiencing catastrophic failure. 

In this post, we’ll simulate buckling on a simple bracket and add a stiffener to improve its performance. This example will be particularly helpful for those following a SolidWorks FEA tutorial or those enrolled in a SolidWorks FEA course. 

 Basic Steps in Finite Element Analysis (FEA) 

Before we get into the simulation, let’s quickly recap the basic steps in finite element analysis: 

1. Model Setup: Define the geometry of the structure. 

2. Material Assignment: Assign material properties to the model. 

3. Meshing: Break down the model into smaller elements using a finite element mesh. In this case, we’ll apply both normal and controlled mesh to ensure accuracy in key areas. 

4. Boundary Conditions: Define loads, constraints, and any external forces. 

5. Run the Simulation: Execute the analysis and evaluate the results. 

6. Post-Processing: Review results such as stress distribution, deformation, and safety factors. 

Step-by-Step: Running a Buckling Analysis in SolidWorks 

Here’s how you can apply SolidWorks FEA analysis to a simple bracket. 

1. Model Setup 

We’ll begin by opening the bracket in SolidWorks. A load of 2,000 Newtons (or 2 kN) will be applied on the top face, while the bottom faces of the bracket will be fixed. 

2. Assign Material

For this simulation, a cast alloy steel is assigned as the material. You can adjust this depending on your specific requirements. 

3. Meshing the Model 

One of the basic steps in FEA is applying a finite element mesh. Here, a set of finer mesh for the area where most buckling is expected to occur and a normal mesh for the rest of the model. This allows us to capture higher accuracy where it matters most, while keeping computation time efficient. 

4. Running the Simulation 

After meshing, buckling analysis is run. The result shows that the buckling factor of safety is 13.89 when a load of 2,000 Newtons is applied. While this is acceptable, our goal is to improve it to around 20 for added safety

 Adding a Stiffener to Increase the Buckling Factor 

To increase the buckling factor of safety without changing the dimensions or material of the bracket, we’ll add a stiffener. This is a common technique in finite element analysis to improve a structure’s performance under load. 

Once I’ve added the stiffener, we’ll rerun the simulation. Immediately, you can see an improvement—the buckling factor increases to 15.7, a significant gain just by adding a small stiffener. 

 Design Optimization with Finite Element Mesh 

We’re aiming for a buckling factor of 20, so let’s optimize further. Using SolidWorks’ Design Study feature, we can modify parameters such as the stiffener’s position, to find the most optimal configuration. This kind of finite element method mesh optimization allows us to achieve the best balance between structural strength and material usage. 

After running the design study, we achieve our goal—an optimal buckling factor greater than 20! This demonstrates how a simple design modification can dramatically enhance the performance of your model. 

Your Buckling Analysis Challenge 

For those following along with a SolidWorks FEA course, here’s a challenge for you! Using the same techniques outlined here, try increasing the buckling factor of safety for a cyclonic separator model. Your goal is to optimize the design without changing the material or dimensions, just like in our bracket example. 

Focus on applying a finite element mesh effectively and experiment with stiffeners and other design features to improve performance. 

Conclusion 

SolidWorks FEA analysis is an incredibly powerful tool for optimizing designs and ensuring structural integrity. By understanding the basic steps in FEA and learning how to apply finite element method mesh techniques, you can significantly improve the safety and reliability of your models. 

Whether you're learning through a SolidWorks FEA tutorial or participating in a SolidWorks FEA course, this example of buckling analysis provides valuable insights into how design changes can influence the outcome. 

Keep experimenting, optimizing, and learning! 

Stay tuned for the next post in our FEA Simulation using SolidWorks series! 

 This blog is part of our ongoing series on FEA Simulations using SolidWorks. If you missed the previous posts, check them out here.  

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