A harmonic model uses only the vector potential formulation for eddy-current regions. Therefore, you can use only the element types described below to model eddy current domains.
For detailed information about the elements, consult the Element Reference. That manual organizes element descriptions in numeric order. The Mechanical APDL Theory Reference manual also contains information about the elements.
Table 3.1: 2D Solid Elements
| Element | Dimens. | Shape or Characteristic | DOFs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLANE13 | 2D | 4-node quadrilateral or 3-node triangular | Up to four at each node; these can be magnetic vector potential (AZ), displacements, temperature, or time-integrated electric potential |
Supported for cyclic symmetry (periodic) analysis, static only. |
| PLANE233 | 2D | 8-node quadrilateral or 6-node triangular | Up to three at each node; these can be magnetic vector potential (AZ), electric potential/voltage drop or time-integrated electric potential/voltage drop (VOLT), electromotive force or time-integrated electromotive force (EMF) |
Current-technology element [1]Supported for cyclic symmetry (periodic) analysis. |
Whenever possible, use PLANE233 (the current-technology electromagnetic element) rather than PLANE13 (a legacy magnetic element). See Older vs. Current 2D Magnetic Element Technologies for a list of the capabilities that are only available with PLANE233. PLANE233 does not support nonlinear harmonic analysis or velocity effects.
Some of the procedural steps in this chapter are not applicable to PLANE233. For information on the differences between PLANE233 and PLANE13, see Older vs. Current 2D Magnetic Element Technologies.
Table 3.2: Far-Field Elements
| Element | Dimens. | Shape or Characteristic | DOFs |
|---|---|---|---|
| INFIN110 | 2D | Quadrilateral, four or eight nodes | Magnetic vector potential (AZ), electric potential, temperature |
Table 3.3: General Circuit Elements
| Element | Dimens. | Shape or Characteristic | DOFs |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIRCU124 | None | Six nodes | Up to two at each node; electric potential, current |
Table 3.4: Contact Elements
| Element | Dimens. | Shape or Characteristic | DOFs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TARGE169 | 2D | Target segment | n/a | Used to model the target region for a contact analysis |
| CONTA172 | 2D | Surface-to-surface contact element (3-node) | AZ | Used to model the contact region for a contact analysis |
| CONTA175 | 2D | Node-to-surface contact element (1-node) | AZ | Used to model the contact region for a contact analysis |