Structural Analysis of Trailer Skid
Challenges:
- Identify the actual load distribution on the frame to produce accurate simulation results
- Developing finite element model to perform structural analysis
Software Used: ANSYS Professional NLS 14.5
Solution: The trailer frame design was developed and structural analysis was performed by applying suitable boundary conditions. The results obtained through the analysis for two proposed designs were well within the safe design limits.
Trailer frames are designed to withstand heavy loads and needs to possess enough structural strength to accommodate the same. Under vertical loading conditions, the frame is subjected to stresses that leads to deformation, and under critical loading situations, the frame may elongate or fail completely.
Canada’s leading trailer manufacturer approached Hi-Tech to evaluate two different trailer frame designs for structural integrity through finite element method.
Solution:
Two trailer designs provided by the client were first modeled through CAD tools to execute finite element analysis. Through suitable application of boundary conditions and loads, structural analysis was performed for both the proposed design.
It was observed through the results that both the trailer frame designs were acceptable with respect to the stress and deformation criteria.
Benefits:
- Substantial reduction in cost and time associated with physical test trials due to simulation solutions
- Assessment results significantly reduced the manufacturing time frame
