How to simulate a column buckling problem on Patran. I'm trying to simulate a column with 2 pinned ends.

[uzair_17]

Im really confused while applyling Boundary Conditions. If I apply load at one end, wont it get reacted as all the translations are fixed in a pinned support. How do i simulate this?

 

[Denial]

I have never used PATRAN, and I am probably misunderstanding your question, but ...
If ALL your translations are fixed, your axially directed load "never reaches" your column because it goes directly into the support: you need to release that axial restraint.

 

[SWComposites]

no, you do not fix all translations in a pinned end. you only fix the lateral translations. you do not fix the axial direction translation at both ends, only at the end that is not loaded.

 

[rb1957]

as above, at one end constrain all 3 translational freedoms (X, Y, Z), at the other with load applied axially (in X?) constrain Y and Z.
now you will also need to constrain RX (if X is axial, ie column torsion) at one end, it doesn't matter which, but the fully constrained end (as opposed to the loaded end) would be more natural. This gives you 6 constraints necessary for rigid body motion.

you'll also need to run a solution that understands compression and buckling, the standard static stress solution probably doesn't understand this and will just give P/A as the answer (not appreciating Euler buckling).

BTW, PATRAN is a pre-and post-processor ... you are running some other FEA code, possibly NASTRAN.