The most expensive mistake in machine design is the one discovered after production. A chassis that cracks in the field, an arm that deflects more than expected or a weld that fatigues too soon means both remanufacturing costs and damage to your reputation. Finite element analysis (FEA) lets you see these risks at the design stage.
What does FEA do?
FEA divides a part or structure into many small elements and calculates how it will behave under real loads. This shows where stresses concentrate, how much the structure will deform and which areas are critical.
Scope of analysis
- Static strength and stress analysis
- Deformation and stiffness evaluation
- Fatigue life calculations
- Weight and material optimisation
- Welded and bolted joint calculations
We report the results together with recommendations for improving the design.
Benefits of analysing before production
- Seeing fracture and deformation risks early: Weak points are identified before a prototype is built.
- Removing unnecessary weight: Structures made thicker “just to be safe” can be lightened without compromising safety, reducing material and manufacturing costs.
- Fewer prototypes: The chance of getting the design right with the first prototype increases.
- Documented confidence: The analysis report is concrete evidence of why the design is safe, for customers and inspections.
When is it essential?
- Load-bearing structures such as chassis, booms and arms
- Parts under cyclic loading with fatigue risk
- Mobile equipment where weight is critical
- Existing machines whose design is modified or whose loads are increased
The right input for the right result
The value of FEA depends on the accuracy of its inputs. Loads, boundary conditions and material properties must be defined realistically, and the results must be interpreted with engineering knowledge. That is why analysis delivers real value when it is done by a team that understands both design and manufacturing.
Request a quote for the analysis of your designs, from mini construction machines to special-purpose machinery.