Solidworks Simulation Mesh Sensitivity study

[PS Fugro]

I've been asked to demonstrate that the a comparison of, averaged nodal or elemental stresses with their corresponding averaged values shows a less than 5% variance, as part of a report linear FEA stress study. This is to cover the mesh sensitivity study requirement of API 17TR8. I can't see a way of doing this in Solidworks Simulation does anyone know how it can be done? Or can suggest an alternative approach that I could document to show I've covered the sensitivity issue?
I've tried using the h-adaptive meshing approach but I'm being told that doesn't fulfill the requirement.

 

[IdanPV]

Hi,

The 5% is a common practice in design codes. CSA B51 Annex J has the same requirement.

You can show an Energy Norm Error Plot which shows the node values vs. element values

A good practice is to capped the error plot at 5%. Area above 5% indicates that the stress aren't converged. Area below that value are OK.
Please note that area of singularity, stresses at surface to surface contacts and other stress concentrations, will show error larger that 5%.

Take a read here:
1. ENERGY NORM ERROR PLOTS
2. PVEng - Error Plots – Bolt Heads and Surface to Surface Contacts
3. PVEng-FEA Submission Requirements-CRN