Algor is releasing Algor V21, the latest major release of its finite element analysis (FEA) software package, which the company says significantly upgrades the entire spectrum of FEA: modelling, solution and results evaluation and presentation.

V21 provides Algor users with increased power, flexibility and

ease-of-use for simulating engineering analyses. New and improved features include: a behind-the-scenes representation of the CAD model (called the ‘virtual CAD’ modelling layer) and meshing algorithms for better mesh matching and automatic contact in complex assemblies; calculation of mass transfer due to diffusion in 3D transient analysis; full 3D display of 2D axisymmetric and planar model results (using rotation or thickness values); and enhanced reporting capabilities including a Wysiwyg (what you see is what you get) dialogue.

Initial reaction to V21 has been positive. Jean M Beaupre, CEO of Crescendo Technologies in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, comments: “I found the meshing routines to be more robust with unusual geometry and iso parametric elements.

Algor says that this has allowed me to spend less time optimising mesh size, producing models with fewer nodes and quicker solve times, while retaining accuracy.”

James A Britch, a Houston-based project manager working in the oil and gas industry, adds: “The new capability for 3D display of 2D models works very well.

“This feature is especially valuable for 2D axisymmetric models such as might be used in pressure vessel analysis or in flange set analysis. Looking at a 3D display gives one a sense of scale and, as such, provides another level of model quality assurance.”

Algor’s product manager, Bob Williams, states: “V21 provides extensive additions to our modelling, meshing, analysis and presentation tools based on customer requests.

“In particular, this major software release’s expanded analysis capabilities – including mass transfer, phase change, fracture mechanics and cyclic symmetry – open up new areas that can be examined with our software, allowing users to perform more realistic and sophisticated simulations than ever before.”

Numerous other features have been added to Algor V21, such as: support for Cocreate Onespace Modelling 2007; scheduling analyses to start at a later time; capability to save customer-defined material input to a material library; phase change in transient heat transfer analysis; and fracture mechanics to simulate crack propagation in structures.

The new and improved features of V21 enhance and expand Algor’s wide range of simulation capabilities including static stress and mechanical event simulation (MES) with linear and nonlinear material models, linear dynamics, steady-state and transient heat transfer, steady and unsteady fluid flow, electrostatics and full multiphysics. All analysis capabilities are available within Fempro, Algor’s

easy-to-use single user interface.l

For more information, visit www.algor.com