AISC and Shell Model FEA

[HookedOnHalo]

We use ANSYS and other FEA code for simple structural analysis of beam and spar structures. The FEA programs include the AISC code (or specialized macros) for evaluating the beam stress and loads against the AISC 9th Edition.

The particular structure we are now considering is made almost entirely of plate so we will model with shell elements.

My question is does AISC have a defined procedure for using results from FEA programs to qualify the design? Is it as simple as say calculating the stress for a lifting case or operating case and comparing the calculated stress to the allowable yield stress?

 

[UcfSE]

To my knowledge, the AISC does not provide a means to compare FEA results for plates and shells directly, like comparing some yield criterion such as von Mises or Tresca to some allowable stress or design strength.

I think one of the best things to do would be to call or email your question to the AISC at their Ask the Steel Solutions Center website or to try to locate another steel code which addresses interpretting FEA results, or both to better gauge your responses.