In order to develop a quote for you the following information needs to be provided.
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A statement of work. This should include exactly what work you require, for example: model creation and first-pass concept analysis
and report, or, full analysis and support to project completion.
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Models and/or drawings of the component.
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Contact details.
What format can models be supplied in?
Strand7 supports
a variety of imports with the most common being iges. The full list includes: IGES file (*.igs, *.iges), ACIS file (*.sat),
AutoCAD DXF file (*.dxf), Stereo-Lithography file (*.stl), STAAD-Pro file (*.std), Strand 6/7 text file (*.txt, *.acs), Strand
6 Binary file (*.dir), MSC/Nastran file (*.dat, *.nas).
Why use FE over traditional methods?
Obviously
it is possible, given the time and resource, to analyse all engineering components regardless of the complexity of the analysis
using traditional engineering methods and calculations. FE really becomes useful
when the analysis becomes complex in some way, whether it is a complex component/assembly, complex/multiple load cases, or
detailed stress iterations. FE, in these circumstances can offer advantages in
terms of time, detail and component confidence.
How accurate is FE?
FE code is methodically developed and tested before release, and furthermore is based upon
basic engineering principles. Strand7 is used in many engineering fields producing
accurate results all over the world.
FE model results, as with calculations, are only as accurate as the information and assumptions
you make. In many circumstances basic model checks and a quick hand calculation
can often prove or disprove the accuracy of a model. With FE, even if the
model has been rigorously checked, can sometimes produce spurious results. These
are often a result of modelling assumptions or singularities and can often be discarded; in these circumstances a supporting
calculation should always be used to prove the conformance of a specific feature.
Can I use FE to replace physical component testing?
In short,
no you should not. FE analysis should under no circumstances take the place of physical component testing. FE
is primarily a risk reduction tool, meaning that it is used to reduce the increase the probability that the component is fit
for purpose and ready for physical testing. FE should really be considered as a large, complex calculation and should
be dealt with as one would deal with a regular calculation. If you decide to use the results of FE to state the components
structural conformance then you do so at your own risk and Iter8 Analysis Services will not be held responsible for any consequences
as a result.
What documentation will I receive as proof of the analysis?
This
really comes down to what you want, most clients choose a full report accompanied by calculations using Iter8 Analysis Services
templates, both of which are prepared in Microsoft Word and Excel respectively and then converted into a pdf and digitally
signed. If you have a requirement to use your templates then this of course can be accomodated.
We are predominantly a design house and have limited stress analysis
experience. Can we use Iter8 Analysis Services as a full stress analysis signatory
service?
Iter8
Analysis will assist you in providing a stress and finite element analysis service. If you are unable to provide information
regarding material properties, load cases and restraints then these can be sourced for you. All analysis completed by
Iter8 Analysis will be signed to, 1) state that the analysis is correct amd approved based upon the information supplied,
and 2) to signify that Iter8 Analysis believes that the component is theoretically fit for purpose and ready for testing based
upon the supplied information and the analysis. The client must also sign the document to state that they approve of
the analysis, its methodology, results and conclusion. Iter8 Analysis will not sign and approve a design to signify
specific structural approval from a regulatory body. Further information is available upon request in the Terms &
Conditions document.
Our design is highly classified, are you still able to take the
project?
Yes.
All projects are considered confidential and no information will be shared or given to anybody unless speciic requested by
the client. Should the project require special measures for security then these should be discussed with Iter8
Analysis in person.
We have had a component analysed by a third party yet are unhappy
with the supplied results. Can you advise?
Iter8
Analysis will provide a second opinion service if required. This will include calculations, models and a supporting
report to certify that Iter8 Analysis agrees or disagrees with the results presented by the third party.
Do you have insurance?
Yes,
Iter8 Analysis has insurance for:
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Professional
Indemnity
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Public
Liability
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Legal
protection
Further
details available upon request.
We recognise that FE is a virtual method of component testing,
however we require our component to be physically tested as well as part of the work package.
Can you support this?
Iter8 Analysis does not physically test any components
and therefore if this is a requirement then Iter8 Analysis will use a client approved secondary contractor to support this
phase. Iter8 Analysis will act as the managing body for this if required.
