ABAQUS and ANSYS Implementations of the Peridynamics-Based Finite Element Method (PeriFEM) for Brittle Fractures

Abstract

In this study, we propose the first unified implementation strategy for peridynamics in commercial finite element method (FEM) software packages based on their application programming interface using the peridynamics-based finite element method (PeriFEM). Using ANSYS and ABAQUS as examples, we present the numerical results and implementation details of PeriFEM in commercial FEM software. PeriFEM is a reformulation of the traditional FEM for solving peridynamic equations numerically. It is considered that the non-local features of peridynamics yet possesses the same computational framework as the traditional FEM. Therefore, this implementation benefits from the consistent computational frameworks of both PeriFEM and the traditional FEM. An implicit algorithm is used for both ANSYS and ABAQUS; however, different convergence criteria are adopted owing to their unique features. In ANSYS, APDL enables users to conveniently obtain broken-bond information from UPFs; thus, the convergence criterion is chosen as no new broken bond. In ABAQUS, obtaining broken-bond information is not convenient for users; thus, the default convergence criterion is used in ABAQUS. The codes integrated into ANSYS and ABAQUS are both verified through benchmark examples, and the computational convergence and costs are compared. The results show that, for some specific examples, ABAQUS is more efficient, whereas the convergence criterion adopted in ANSYS is more robust. Finally, 3D examples are presented to demonstrate the ability of the proposed approach to deal with complex engineering problems.

Phase-Field Simulation of Sintering Process: A Review

“…These elements are interconnected through nodes, and the method proceeds by applying variational principles and partial interpolation to obtain approximate solutions for each element. Subsequently, through iterative solving, the results of all elements are combined to obtain the finite element solution for the entire region [140][141][142][143]. The flexibility and adaptability of the finite element method are significant, but it poses challenges in terms of program design and involves complexities in data preparation, along with potential issues of data oscillations during computation [143,144].…”

Element‐based coupling modeling of peridynamics and classical continuum mechanics for dynamic brittle fracture

“…41,42 This peridynamics-based finite element method has shown a great potential in the field of commercial finite element software applications. 43 The remainder of this paper is organized as follows: Section 2 derives the weak form of the hybrid peridynamic and classical continuum mechanical model's motion equation. Section 3 shows the element-based spatial discretization of the hybrid model.…”

“…In this method, a type of element called peridynamic element has been defined to achieve a consistent computational framework with the classical finite element method 41,42 . This peridynamics‐based finite element method has shown a great potential in the field of commercial finite element software applications 43 …”