VM-WB-MECH-065

VM-WB-MECH-065
Thermal Expansion to Close a Gap at a Rigid Surface

Overview

Reference:

Harris, C. O. (1959). Introduction to Stress Analysis (p. 58, problem 8). New York, NY: The Macmillan Co.

Solver(s):

Ansys Mechanical

Analysis Type(s): Static Thermal Stress Analysis
Element Type(s): Solid and Shell

Test Case

An aluminum-alloy bar is initially at a temperature of 70 °F. Calculate the stresses and the thermal strain in the bar after it has been heated to 170 °F. The supports are assumed to be rigid. Use a global mesh size of 0.25 in.

Figure 87: Schematic

Schematic

Material PropertiesGeometric PropertiesLoading
E = 10.5 x 106 psi
α = 1.25 x 10-5/°F
ν = 0.0
= 3 in.
δ = 0.002 in.
Δt = 170 °F - 70 °F

Results Comparison

ResultsTargetMechanicalError (%)
Normal Stress Y (psi)-6125-6122.4-0.042
Thermal Strain Y (in/in)1.25 x10-3 1.25 x 10-3 0