Using FEA for Failure Analysis in Thermo-Mechanical Systems

Finite element analysis (FEA) has become an essential tool for understanding and predicting the behavior of thermo-mechanical systems under complex loading and thermal conditions. When combined with experimental measurements or field data, FEA can provide robust insights that guide design decisions, verify system performance, and prevent potential failures.

This presentation will illustrate the application of FEA in the context of forensic and investigative engineering through anonymized case studies. Each example demonstrates how simulations, when validated against measured data, can reveal critical interactions in mechanical and thermal systems. By integrating FEA with practical investigations, engineers can assess risks, optimize designs, and ensure the safety and reliability of components without relying on proprietary or confidential information.

Attendees will gain an understanding of effective workflows for combining simulation and measurement data, strategies for validating FEA models, and approaches to communicating results in a clear and actionable manner. The discussion emphasizes generalizable principles rather than specific components or industries, making the insights applicable across a broad range of thermo-mechanical applications. Through this approach, the presentation highlights the value of FEA as a versatile tool in both investigative and preventative engineering contexts.