Simulation series - Fracture mechanics analysis of topology-optimized parts

sMark Oliver, Veryst Engineering

Analyzing the flaw-tolerance of topology-optimized parts using fracture mechanics is becoming increasingly important as topology optimization gains wider industrial adoption and is used in the design of more structurally critical components.

In this presentation, I will share an example of optimizing a part using nTop and then Abaqus to verify the flaw-tolerance of that part. I will discuss how nTop’s ability to convert topology optimization results into CAD bodies enables the subsequent partitioning and meshing in Abaqus required to make accurate fracture mechanics calculations.

Key takeaways:

• Topology optimization can help engineers realize significant weight savings in load-bearing components.
• Applying fracture mechanics to topology-optimized parts is necessary to verify flaw-tolerance for structurally critical applications.
• The nTop can convert topology optimization results into CAD bodies, enabling efficient partitioning, meshing, and analysis of cracks using Abaqus.