Parametric Study Research Articles

Parametric Study of Helical Piles Subjected to Compression and Tension Loading Through Finite Element Analysis: A Case Study

AbstractThis study performed a parametric analysis on helical piles through finite element models. To carry out this study, the modeling of two case studies was carried out in the PLAXIS 2D software; the results of the models were compared with the results of experimental investigations of helical piles subjected to compression and tension. The calibrated models were used to carry out the parametric study in which the spacing between plates, the number of helical plates, and the diameter of the plates were modified. The results suggest that a spacing ratio s/D < 3 is not convenient since it generates a cylindrical shear failure, decreasing the capacity of the pile; furthermore, utilizing more than three plates in helical piles does not result in a substantial increase in pile capacity, while increasing the diameter of the helical plates provides a larger supporting surface, directly enhancing the pile's capacity.

Numerical simulation and multi-objective optimization of thin-walled aluminum/carbon fiber reinforced plastic hybrid tubes under axial crushing

Crushing behavior analysis and energy absorption optimization are crucial for lightweight structures in automotive applications. The present paper aims to investigate the crushing behavior of thin-walled aluminum/CFRP hybrid tubes under axial loading using an explicit finite element (FE) simulation. The damage constitutive models of aluminum and CFRP are implemented by coding the user-defined subroutine VUMAT in ABAQUS/Explicit, which includes the damage initiation and evolution laws and element deletion scheme. Parametric studies are conducted to assess the effects of radius and aluminum layer thickness on the crushing performance of hybrid tubes. Additionally, a multi-objective optimization is performed on the Isight platform using a non-dominant sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) with entropy weight method. The optimization aims to maximize crashworthiness and increase energy absorption capacity, enabling designers to select an optimum size ratio.

Wellbore instability in naturally fractured formations: Experimental study and 3D numerical investigation

Wellbore instability due to natural fractures is a significant issue impeding drilling operations in shale formations. However, most of the existing literature on wellbore stability analysis focuses on the coupled effects of fluid flow and deformation, and the impact of three-dimensional natural fracture characteristics on wellbore instability is not yet closely examined. This paper carried out a series of experiments to analyze the shale sample's fracture characteristics and shear strength. A fully coupled 3D hydro-mechanical model was then developed using the distinct element method (DEM) to investigate the wellbore instability. Finally, a comprehensive parametric study was performed to analyze the effects of characteristics of fractures (e.g., distribution density, fracture roughness and associated shear strength, dip angle, and seepage time) on wellbore stability under different in-situ stress states. The results show that the shear strength of shale increases with the increase in normal pressure (4 MPa, 6 MPa, and 8 MPa); the shear strength increases by 64.9% when the roughness is 0.325 mm (the largest increase among the three roughness cases). The maximum displacement around the wellbore is 1.3–1.5 times greater under the presence of weak planes than under no weak planes. Fracture roughness poses an important impact on wellbore stability because larger fracture roughness is associated with higher fracture shear strength. As the dip angle of the weak plane increases, the number of yield zones (shear failure) and maximum wellbore displacement increases and then decreases, and the peak occurs at the dip angle of 45°. The seepage time of drilling fluid is positively correlated with the number of yield zones around the wellbore, and the damage rate of drilling fluid to wellbore stability gradually decreases with the seepage time.

Experimental Investigation of Naphthalene Induced Degradation of Reversible Solid Oxide Cells Operated on Bio-Syngas

The influence of the operational conditions and the electrode material on the degradation induced by the model tar naphthalene on 10 × 10 cm2 fuel-electrode supported solid oxide cells operated on artificial bio-syngas under internal reforming conditions is experimentally investigated. Two different fuel electrodes are investigated based on yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and gadolinium-doped ceria (GDC). A parameter study of the operational temperature and the operation mode (fuel cell or electrolysis mode) is conducted with the YSZ-based fuel electrode to quantify the effects on the cell degradation. The fuel off-gas composition and electrochemical impedance spectra are used to characterize the cell prior to the experiment and monitor its performance during the poisoning process. The influence of the tar on the Ni-YSZ electrode cell is investigated for an operation at 700 °C and 800 °C in fuel cell mode, and an operation at 700 °C in electrolysis mode. The experiment at 700 °C is repeated with the Ni-GDC electrode cell. At the increased operational temperature, the Ni-YSZ cell is more robust but carbon depositions occur. The voltage degradation during electrolysis operation increases significantly compared to fuel cell operation. The Ni-GDC electrode does not show an increased robustness compared to the Ni-YSZ electrode.

Experimental and numerical research on the uniaxial behavior of the stiffened circular concrete-filled steel tube stub columns

In large-span bridges or high-rise buildings, CFST columns with large width-to-thickness ratio are often adopted, which require proper stiffening measures to improve the mechanical behaviors. This paper presents a comparative study of circular CFST stub columns with different stiffening methods, including longitudinal stiffeners (cross-shaped, T-shaped and ordinary type), additional reinforcement and headed studs. Axial compression tests have been conducted to investigate the effects of different stiffening methods on the failure mode, ultimate strength and ductility of the circular CFST stub columns. Finite element models are established to simulate the columns’ behaviors and conduct parametric studies. Based on test and simulation results, an axial bearing capacity prediction model for circular CFST stub columns stiffened by longitudinal stiffeners is proposed. It is demonstrated that the failure modes of the steel tube and core concrete are changed by the longitudinal stiffeners. The longitudinal steel stiffeners as well as reinforcing cage can effectively improve the axial bearing capacity and ductility of the columns. The latter is more efficient in promoting the bearing capacity while the former is more efficient in improving the ductility and residual strength. A combination of the additional stirrups and the ordinary stiffeners will be a more economical choice. In addition, the proposed formula gives better prediction accuracy compared to the equations in various design codes.

Magneto-thermal and aerodynamic study of a toroidal transformer dimensioning

Toroidal transformers are designed using a circular core instead of the traditional laminated rectangular core, which reduces inductance losses and increases efficiency. The primary goal of this study is to understand the cooling mechanisms involved in electrical transformers, which are critical components in power systems. Steady electromagnetic, fluid flow and temperature equations are simultaneously solved (direct method) using the finite elements method FEM of a shielded toroidal transformer. The paper focuses on creating a direct-coupled model (DCM) to understand the processes involved in electrical transformers cooling, using Magneto-AeroDynamic (MAD) models. The nonlinear models developed will be implemented and validated in this parametric study for different inlet velocities and the number of outlet. Transformers generate heat during operation, and it’s important to control the temperature to prevent overheating and ensure reliable operation.

Assessment of Axisymmetric Dynamic Snap-Through and Thermally Induced Vibrations in FGM Cylindrical Shells Under Instantaneous Heating

This paper addresses the investigation of axisymmetric thermally induced vibrations in Functionally Graded Material (FGM) cylindrical shells. It considers temperature-dependent (TD) properties and geometric non-linearity (the von Karman effect). The study systematically solves a transient heat conduction equation using finite differences method and the Crank–Nicolson method. During the heating stages, the evaluation of thermal forces and moments takes place. Equations of motion are derived through the application of Hamilton’s principle. Spatial dependencies are discretized using the generalized Ritz method, while temporal dependencies are approximated using the [Formula: see text]-Newmark method with Newton–Raphson linearization. A comparative analysis validates the procedure’s efficiency and precision. Parametric studies explore the influence of parameters, including the temperature-dependency material properties, geometric nonlinearity, and shell’s power-law index, providing valuable insights into FGM shell behavior under thermal shock.

Thermal Impact Investigation of Shaded Opaque Walls in Bangkok

The effectiveness of overhang shading devices in mitigating solar radiation on opaque walls is crucial for passive building design in tropical regions. However, opaque walls commonly are side-lined in shading design due to a preoccupation with insulation properties, appearance, and aesthetics. Unprotected walls exposed to solar radiation maximize heat gain, while shaded walls decrease external heat gain and indoor temperature, resulting in improved indoor thermal comfort and well-being. This research employs EnergyPlus and SPSS to investigate the optimal design of overhang shading devices for opaque walls in Bangkok, Thailand. The investigation is divided into two phases: (1) determination of the optimal depth-to-space ratio of overhang devices based on a parametric study of 12 overhang configurations; (2) an evaluation of the ratio in reducing solar radiation. The findings demonstrate a relationship between the device depths and the wall solar radiation and indoor temperature. The optimum depth-to-space ratio is suggested as 1:1.15, which can lower the annual average indoor temperature by 3.53% (1.18°C) compared to the benchmark design. Deeper shading device depths than the optimum depth-to-space ratio can be applied, with a slight improvement in protective performance (and commensurately increased costs). This research underscores the importance of overhang shading devices as a performance-improving strategy for buildings in the tropical climate of Thailand.

A Quantitative Risk Analysis during Truck-to-Ship Ammonia Bunkering

A primary objective for the sustainable development of the maritime sector is to transition toward carbon-neutral fuels, with the aim to reduce emissions from maritime transportation. Ammonia emerges as a promising contender for hydrogen storage, offering the potential for CO2-free energy systems in the future. Notably, ammonia presents advantageous attributes for hydrogen storage, such as its high volumetric hydrogen density, low storage pressure requirements, and long-term stability. However, it is important to acknowledge that ammonia also poses challenges due to its toxicity, flammability, and corrosive nature, presenting more serious safety concerns that need to be addressed compared with other alternative fuels. This study sought to explore the dispersion characteristics of leaked gas during truck-to-ship ammonia bunkering, providing insights into the establishment of appropriate safety zones to minimize the potential hazards associated with this process. The research encompassed parametric studies conducted under various operational and environmental conditions, including different bunkering conditions, gas leak rates, wind speeds, and ammonia toxic doses. EFFECTS, which is commercial software for consequence analysis, was utilized to analyze specific scenarios. The focus was on a hypothetical ammonia bunkering truck of 37,000 L refueling an 8973 deadweight tonnage (DWT) service vessel with a tank capacity of 7500 m3 in the area of Mokpo Port, South Korea. The study’s findings underscore that the ammonia leak rate, ambient temperature, and wind characteristics significantly impacted the determination of safety zones. Additionally, the bunkering conditions, leak hole size, and surrounding traffic also played influential roles. This study revealed that bunkering in winter resulted in a larger safety zone compared with bunkering in summer. The lethality dose of ammonia was affected by the leak hole size, time for dispersion, and the amount of ammonia released. These observed variations imply that ammonia truck-to-ship bunkering should be undertaken with carefully chosen suitable safety criteria, thereby significantly altering the scope of safety zones. Consequently, the risk assessment method outlined in this paper is expected to assist in determining the appropriate extent of safety zones and provide practical insights for port authorities and flag states contributing to the future sustainable development of the maritime industry.

Multiband SINC-slotted Patch Antenna for 5G Applications

In this work, we presented the design, analysis and optimization of the multiband slotted antennas based on SINC function for 5G applications. The proposed antennas are designed and modelled by CST Studio Suite software. A parametric study is performed to determine sinc function parameters that control the performance of the proposed antenna. The parametric study is implemented by varying the amplitude of the sinc function, the frequency, the location of the slot along Y-axis, the slot width and the slot window (number of cycles). The simulated results showed that the designed slotted antennas in this paper exhibits multiband operation and they offer the feasibility of controlling and adjusting the resonant frequency by changing the sinc function parameters. The proposed antennas have various resonant frequencies at around 1.5 GHz, 2.65 GHz, 5 GHz and 5.8 GHz covering the 5G sub-6 GHz band. Extensive simulation process were carried out to determine the optimum antenna performance and three antennas were selected based on the reflection characteristics and number of operation frequency bands. Finally, the three selected antennas were manufactured and their performance were measured in the lab for validation. Experimental results showed that an excellent agreement between the measured and simulated results was achieved.

Research on the axial compressive behavior of double skin composite wall with steel truss

This paper presents a research on the axial compressive behavior of double skin composite wall(DSCW) with steel truss, which is a novel type of composite wall. The steel truss is constructed by two angles and kinked rebar is acting as the interface connector. Experimental study was introduced briefly and software ABAQUS was adopted for numerical simulation analysis. By comparing with the experimental results, the accuracy of the finite element model was verified and then structural behavior of the walls was comprehensively evaluated. A parametric study was carried out to investigate the influences of the strength of steel plate and infilled concrete, truss horizontal spacing to thickness ratio on the compression responses of the composite wall. The results show that the better ductility of the composite wall can be achieved by the lower concrete strength and higher steel plate strength. Besides, the strength of the concrete and the steel plate tends to have a linear correlation with the load-carrying capacity. The horizontal spacing to thickness ratio has the significant influence on the failure mode of the composite wall and local buckling of steel plate can be avoided when the ratio is less than a certain value. In addition, the calculation formula for the axial compressive load-carrying capacity of the composite wall was proposed to provide a reference basis for the application of this type of composite walls in practice.

Experimental and FE analysis of the behavior of steel column base connections under tension and bending moment

Most design procedures represent the steel base connection by assuming either a perfectly hinged or a fully rigid connection. However, these kinds of connections are, in fact, semi-rigid or flexible and their actual behavior is complicated. Most of the previous studies investigated these base connections experimentally under moments and axial compression only, which is completely different in the case of axial tension and moment. Therefore, experimental and numerical investigations with variable base plate thicknesses and diameters and arrangements of the anchor bolts were carried out to verify the behavior of this kind of base connection under axial tension and moment. Full-scale steel columns with hinged base plate connections were tested under the effect of two simultaneous actions, axial tension force and bending moment. Moreover, Finite Element (FE) models were developed and verified against the experimental results to conduct a parametric study. The investigated parameters were the base plate thickness and anchor bolt diameter and arrangement. The base plate connections under the effect of axial tension with moment instead of axial compression caused reductions in the rotational stiffness up to 99%. In addition, using only two bolts in this type of connection concentrated stresses on the base plate that led to big deformations. The small base plate thickness deformed easily under the effect of tension force which induced big initial gaps between the steel base plate and the Base beam and subsequently decreased the moment resistance and rotational stiffness of the base plate connection. The big elongation of the anchor bolts with small diameters increased the gap between the steel plate and the Base beam.

Flexural Strength of RHS Perforated Lean Duplex Stainless Steel Beam at Temperature 24-900ºC

The investigation of stainless steel structures at elevated temperatures is still limited, especially to those focused on the behaviour of perforated beams. Therefore, a numerical study was conducted to investigate the behaviour and strength of cold-formed lean duplex stainless steel (CFLDSS) beams having a single web perforation that failed due to pure bending at temperatures between 24-900oC. In total, 200 square and rectangular hollow sections (RHSs), which had various cross-section sizes, hole diameters, and temperature simulations, were involved in the parametric study. The numerical study was based on the ABAQUS simulation results of the 200 specimens. The numerical model was developed based on the validated existing studies. Numerical evaluations show that the existing codified strength predictions are conservative, but it has inconsistent safety. Hence, this study suggests modifications to the existing strength prediction, which is more conservative and reliable.

Three-dimensional analysis of steel beam-column bolted connections

Abstract The design of steel beam-column end-plate bolted connections is becoming increasingly popular owing to its simplicity of production. This requires knowledge of the full nonlinear resisting moment–rotation (M–Φ) behavior of the joint. To investigate the impact of various geometrical factors on the overall behavior of the connection, this work provides a three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) utilizing ABAQUS software. The suggested model accounts for the pretension force on the bolts, material and geometrical deviations from linearity, and the proximity of surfaces that are adjacent. The numerical model’s ability to simulate and process both the total and specific behavior of varieties of end-plate steel riveted connections is confirmed by calibrating the finite element findings with experimentally disclosed outcomes, which are reviewed in this study. The ultimate behavior was then investigated through a parametric study using the verified FEM with variations in the bolt pretension load, yield strength of the sections, and yield stress of the bolt considering the M–Φ curve. The results of the parametric study showed that as the bolt pretension load and yield stress of the column, beam, and plate materials increased, so did the connection’s moment ability. The yield tension of the bolts, however, had only a minor effect on the connection’s moment capacity.

From periphery to center, untold story of pure neuritic leprosy: an electrophysiological study.

Pure neuritic leprosy (PNL) is uncommon form of leprosy involving peripheral nerves. Some isolated case reports have shown imaging changes in the central nervous system (CNS) and also impairment in visual evoked potential (VEP), somatosensory evoked potential (SSEP) and brain stem auditory-evoked potentials (BAEPs) parameters in PNL, but there is lack of large study. This prospective observational study evaluates impairment in these central conduction studies among PNL patients. We screened patients with leprosy presenting with features of neuropathy and/or thickened nerves. Patients with bacilli-positive nerve biopsies were included in the study and subjected to routine tests along with nerve conduction study (NCS), VEP, tibial SSEP and BAEPs. Parameters of these studies were analyzed based on data from previous studies. Of 76 patients screened for PNL 49 had positive findings in biopsy. Most of patients were male and mean age group was 46.35 ± 15.35years. Mononeuritis multiplex was most common NCS pattern in 46.93% (23/49) patients. We found abnormal VEP in 13 out of 35 patients (37.14%). Similarly abnormal SSEP and BAEPs among 42.85% and 40% patients respectively. This study shows that in PNL significant number of patients have subclinical CNS involvement. Exact pathophysiology of CNS involvement is not known till now but study of VEP, SSEP and BAEPs parameter may help in early diagnosis of PNL.

Experimental and numerical investigations of circular concrete filled steel double-skin and double-tube columns exposed to fire

Circular concrete-filled steel double-tube (CFSDT) columns have shown excellent ductility and load-carrying capacity. However, research on the fire resistance of CFSDT columns is still limited. This paper presents the fire tests, finite element (FE) modeling, behavior, and design of circular CFSDT columns and concrete-filled steel double-skin (CFSDS) columns exposed to fire. The fire resistance tests of one CFSDS and six CFSDT columns are described. Analysis is given on the effects of the material strength, the thickness of the inner steel tube, and the load ratio on the fire resistance of the specimens. Finite element models are developed that simulate the fire behavior of filled composite columns with double tubes and are verified by fire test results. The verified FE models are employed to undertake parametric studies on the structural responses of CFSDS and CFSDT columns under fire exposure. A design model is proposed for calculating the fire resistances of CFSDT columns. The results show that the load ratio and the column slenderness ratio have the most significant effect on the fire resistance of CFSDT columns; the cross-sectional parameters remarkably affect the fire resistance; and the material strength has a moderate impact on the fire resistance of CFSDT columns. Compared with CFSDS specimens, the existence of the core concrete significantly increases the fire resistance of CFSDT columns. The proposed design model for fire resistance can yield a safe prediction.

Parametric study of the dispersion of inertial ellipsoidal particles in a wave-current flow

Parametric study of the dispersion of inertial ellipsoidal particles in a wave-current flow

Finite element simulation of axial crushing of flat and C-channel composite coupons using a modified mesomodel

The present article investigates the axial crushing behavior of IM7/8552 material system. Two types of specimens are considered-(a) flat coupons with saw-tooth trigger and (b) C-channels with 45° chamfer as a trigger. All the crushing test data (load, displacement and velocity history curves) is shared in the Crashworthiness working group (CWG) consortium of the Composite material handbook (CMH17.org). Flat crush coupons are tested at the University of Utah and the C-channels are tested at the John H. Glenn Research Center of the National aeronautics and space administration (NASA). Three types of layups are considered for flat coupons: QI1-[90/±45/0]2S, HL2-[902/02/±45/02] and HL3-[90/45/02/90/-45/02]. Two types of layups are considered for C-channels: HL2-[902/02/±45/02] and HL3-[90/45/02/90/-45/02]. Both the specimens are subjected to crush loading with an initial velocity and lumped mass attached to the impactor. All the ply and interface material properties come from the current authors' testing campaign except for strength and stiffness in the fiber direction. The crushing test cases are simulated in LS-Dyna software. Ply and interface behavior is described via user-defined material subroutines of LS-Dyna software. Each ply is modeled using 3D solid elements and the interfaces are modeled explicitly using cohesive elements. Intraply behavior is described using a novel modified meso model proposed by the present authors. Intraply model accounts for nonlinear damage, plasticity, ply fracture toughness and finite element mesh size. Interply response is modeled using bi-linear law. Predictions from present FE models showed a good correlation with crush test data. The effect of finite element model parameters e.g., filtering frequency, mesh size, interface properties, ply fracture toughness, element erosion criterion, contact stiffness and friction coefficient on crushing predictions is demonstrated by conducting parametric studies.

Flow Reversal of Unsteady Oscillatory Flow in Combined Convection Fully Developed Vertical Channel

Numerical simulations of flow and heat transfer in an unsteady oscillatory fully developed combined convection are conducted. The temperature on the right wall varies with sinusoidal rhythm over time within a locked mean temperature, whereas the temperature on the left wall remains constant. Both walls are also considered to be stationary. A numerical solution for the momentum and energy equations obtained using the Runga- Kutta method is used to analyze the effect of periodic oscillation on the velocity and temperature configurations, as well as the progression of heat generations. The combined convection process of heat transfer and its flow pattern in a vertical channel is important in many applications, including environmental, industrial, and engineering. This study is prompted by a problem with the heat transfer process, which is difficult, expensive, and time-consuming. The purpose of this study is to develop a mathematical model, find a numerical solution, and conduct parametric studies on the double-diffusive fully developed vertical channel with unsteady oscillatory flow, as well as to investigate the effect of various parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles. The effect of different dimensional parameters is tested and the flow reversal phenomenon is discussed. The dimensional equations are transformed into non-dimensional equations using the similarity technique. Then, the built-in program dsolve in Maple is used to numerically solve the boundary value problem (BVP). A validation study is conducted on a previously reported problem to confirm the validity of the present calculation. The flow and temperature numerical findings are represented visually. It is found that a large development of flow is caused by the plate temperature oscillation with high amplitude, therefore, the nature of the flow differs from the non-oscillating case.

Mechanics-perspective evaluation of self-sensing geopolymer coatings in structural health monitoring

Self-sensing cementitious coatings are a promising alternative in structural health monitoring due to their high sensing performance and simple production and deployment. The sensing behavior of coatings though differs compared to conventional self-sensing materials due to the interface between the coating and substrate. In this study, the bonding and sensing performance of geopolymer coatings under cyclic compression was investigated by employing four surface treatments – untreated, chipping, brooming, and chemical treatment. The coatings' splitting tensile bond strength ranged between 3.52 MPa and 6.54 MPa. The strain ratio between the coatings and substrates was between 0.62 and 0.67 and the gauge factor was found between 29 and 34. A numerical analysis involving finite element models on the strain behavior of coatings and parametric studies on the coatings' elastic modulus and thickness was carried out. A bonding coefficient, that accounts for the coatings’ mechanical and geometric properties, was proposed to accurately determine the gauge factor.