Course detail
Introduction to FEM
FSI-KFE Acad. year: 2025/2026 Summer semester
The finite element method (FEM) is currently widely used in the design of process equipment. This course is a first part of a two-semester course aimed at acquainting students with the basic principles, advantages and limitations of FEM. Students will learn how to perform analyses in the ANSYS Workbench software. This course is directly followed by Application of FEM course which is focused on solving practical problems from the industry.
Language of instruction
Czech
Number of ECTS credits
3
Supervisor
Department
Entry knowledge
Basic knowledge of elasticity and strength of structures, solid mechanics, limit states, theory of materials and 2D/3D modelling.
Rules for evaluation and completion of the course
Course-unit credit will be awarded for taking an active part in the lessons.
Presence in the lessons is compulsory. Absences are compensated by individual study of the respective topics.
Aims
The aim is to familiarize students with the finite element method and its use in process equipment strength calculations.
Students will gain practical experience in the finite element method calculations focusing on the process industry (pressure vessels, heat exchangers, piping, …). The acquired theoretical and practical knowledge can be expanded in the "Application of FEM (KAM)" course the next semester which prepares students for the successful FEM application in solving problems in the industry.
The study programmes with the given course
Programme N-PRI-P: Process Engineering, Master's, compulsory-optional
Type of course unit
Computer-assisted exercise
39 hours, compulsory
Syllabus
1. Introduction to FEM
2. Beam elements
3. 2D analyses
4. Shell structures
5. 3D analyses
6. Heat conduction and thermal analyses
7. Transient analyses
8. Parametrization
9. Stress categories
10. Contact problems
11. Advanced meshing methods
12. Possibilities of results evaluation – postprocessing