Convergence and Benchmarks with LayerSlayer FEA

As described in the previous chapter, the computation of energy release rates and stress intensity factors using the finite element method requires specification of various numerical parameters. These parameters relate to both the FE model itself (basically, the mesh) and the calculations performed during postprocessing of the FE results (basically, the calculation of the stiffness derivitive). In this chapter, the powerful automation of the LS-FEA framework is exploited to conduct extensive parametric studies, which illustrate the impact of these parameters on computational accuracy. The outcomes of these studies are used as the basis to establish recommended practices and default values for the associated numerical parameters, such as those in Table 16.1.