ThomasH, inline6
I am not able to understand why are you both "sceptical" about the convergence. Yes different softwares adopt different aprroach. But I guess limit load analysis (or I can say to any analysis) if performed on different softwares should give same results keeping all the parameters same. Otherwise there will be no universality in the results. Also underlying algorithm for all softwares is Finite element method which is general. Doesn't it?
We need to understand what convergence means for this method. I am also doubtful about how it has been achieved. But still what I think is as follows.
First software will calculate deformations by following the slope path of the material model. If the load is higher than yield or dimensions are such that it will not hold on to, the component will yield and distribute the load to other sections and if the sections are able to take that load, it will either yield to Finite strain and solution is converged or it will go in loop of calculating infinite strain/deformations following the constant stress line of material model.
For all the softwares, I guess process will be same irrespective of programme used to achieve it. So software requirement are their on mesh, geometry, boundary conditions and assumptions. But I guess it is not software dependent.
Engineer before the idiot(sorry intelligent, I mean) box which runs these softwares need to define that.
rb 1957
No. We generally don't run limit load if the structure is passing in the elastic analysis. Logical. I have given an example where if your singularity is widespread(it can't be called singularity then) such that the linearisation of stresses is ambiguous and results in the failure to the limits defined by ASME, we go for limit load or strain hardening approach which you follow.