Mechanical APDL Structural Analysis Guide

Figure 10.1: Element Topology of a 3-D 8-Node Interface Element

P

M

O

N K

I

J

L

x

z

y

Z

X Y

idplane

10.2.2. Thickness Direction

The thickness direction is defined as the normal direction of the mid plane of the element at the integ-
ra tion point, and computed inside of ANSYS. The positive direction is defined by the right-hand rule
going around the nodes in the midplane. The through thickness deformation is quantified by the relative
deformation of bottom and top surfaces along the thickness direction. The thickness direction is then
noted as the X-direction according to the ANSYS notation convention. No ESYS coordinate system is
allowed for the elements.

10.3. Interface Elements

Four types of elements are available to simulate gaskets. They are referred to as interface elements and
are summarized as follows:

• INTER192 - 2-D, 4-node, linear element.


• INTER193 - 2-D, 6-node, quadratic element.


• INTER194 - 3-D, 16-node, quadratic element.


• INTER195 - 3-D, 8-node, linear element

The 2-D elements,INTER192 and INTER193, use a KEYOPT to define various stress-state options.

10.3.1. Element Selection

The simulation of an entire gasket joint assembly, consisting of the gasket and the structural elements
on either side of the gasket, involves choosing interface elements and structural elements that have
the same characteristics. Use the following table as a guideline for choosing interface and structural
elements that have the same characteristics:

Use this interface ... with one of these structural elements:

element:

For elements with

these characterist-

ics:

2-D, linear INTER192 PLANE182

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Interface Elements