Finite element analysis software for silicone ? 1

[Biodesign]

Hello guys

I am working on a silicone model and have to test its elastic deformation properties. I am in doubt which Finite element analysis software is the most appropriate for the job?
I have recently found research paper implying that software using Sussman-Bathe model will provide the best results, implying that ADINA software should be preferred for elastomers.
Anyone with previous experience with FEA of rubber?

Thanks
Sergej

 

[Biodesign]

http://dspace.mit.edu/bitstream/handle/1721.1/45144/311854384.pdf?sequ

 

[glass99]

In terms of structural silicone for my architectural glass applications, I use a Mooney Rivlin material model. Its kind of basic I guess, but gets the job done.

 

[acspain]

Sergej,

I worked as a FEA analyst for a worldwide seal manufacturer. We used Abaqus/Simulia by Dassault Systemes for all analyses.

Essentially though you need a package that will handle non-linear analysis and non-compressible materials. You will want to tension test samples of your material to the strain range you expect. Silicone often has very large break strains so going to break may not be reasonable. You will want to be careful to used appropriate data as elastomers have first pull and long term properties. The Mooney-Rivlin model as mentioned by glass99 works well so long as you compare how your data fits the model and the strains obtained in your model.

The Marlow model in Abaqus/Simulia works very well as it follows the test data and doesn't require additional test data beyond simple tension (such as biaxial and planar data) to improve coefficients and hence fit between the model and test data. Once the Marlow model was introduced it became our primary elastomer model.

I hope this helps.

 

[Biodesign]

Guys
Thank you very much for sharing your practical knowledge with me.