Module 7

Modal Analysis
7. Modal Analysis Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Modal analysis is used to determine a structures vibration
characteristics natural frequencies and mode shapes.
It is the most fundamental of all dynamic analysis types and
is generally the starting point for other, more detailed
dynamic analyses.
In this chapter, we will describe how to do a basic modal
analysis via the following topics:
A. Procedure
B. Workshop

For details, refer to your Structural Analysis Guide or

Dynamics Training Manual.

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Modal Analysis
A. Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
The steps to do a modal analysis are as follows:
Preprocessing
Geometry
Meshing
Solution
Analysis Type and Options
Loading
Solve
Postprocessing
Review results

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Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Geometry & Meshing
Same considerations as a static analysis:
Include as many details as necessary to sufficiently represent
model geometry.
A fine mesh will be needed to resolve complex mode shapes.

Both Youngs modulus and density are required.

Specify mass density instead of weight density when using
British units.
weight density (lb/in3) g (in/sec2) = mass density (lb-sec2/in4)
For example, density of steel = 0.283/386 = 7.3E-04 lb-sec2/in4

Linear elements and material properties only. Nonlinearities

are ignored.

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Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Analysis Type
The analysis type is modal.
Solution > -Analysis Type- New Analysis
Or issue ANTYPE,MODAL

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Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Analysis Options
Mode extraction options
MODOPT command or Solution >
Analysis Options...
Method: Block Lanczos is generally
recommended.
Number of modes: Specify the
number of modes you want to extract.
Mode expansion options
MXPAND command or Solution >
Analysis Options...
Expanding modes allows you to view
them in the postprocessor.
Number of modes is usually the same
as the number extracted.

Prestress effects
PSTRES command or Solution > Default settings are
Analysis Options... usually sufficient
calculate mode shapes of a
prestressed structure, such as a
spinning turbine blade. Octo
Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Loading & Solve
The only loads valid in a modal analysis are
displacement constraints:
Solution > -Loads- Apply > Displacement >
Or use the D family of commands: D, DK, DL, DA,
etc.

If you dont specify constraints, ANSYS will

calculate rigid body modes (zero frequency).
After all constraints have been specified, obtain the solution:
First save the database (SAVE command or Toolbar > SAVE_DB).
Then issue SOLVE (or Solution > -Solve- Current LS).

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Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
Review Results
POST1 (the general postprocessor) is used to review modal analysis
results.
Typically, the first step is to list the natural frequencies:
General Postproc > Results Summary
Or issue SET,LIST
Note that each mode is stored in a separate substep.

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Modal Analysis
...Procedure Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
To plot a mode shape:
First read results for that substep
General Postproc > Results Summary...
Or use the SET command
Then plot the deformed shape
General Postproc > Plot Results >
Deformed Shape
Or use the PLDISP command

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Modal Analysis
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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
You can also animate mode shapes:
Utility Menu > PlotCtrls > Animate > Mode Shape
Or use the ANMODE command

Another option is to plot contours stresses and strains. Note,

however, that displacement and stress values are simply relative
numbers and have no real meaning.

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Modal Analysis
B. Workshop Training Manual

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INTRODUCTION TO ANSYS 6.0 - Part
This workshop consists of the following problem:
W6. U-Bracket

Please refer to your Workshop Supplement for instructions.

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