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RBE2 vs RBE3: Key Differences Explained

RBE2 and RBE3 are rigid elements used to connect parts in finite element analysis. RBE2 induces stiffness, while RBE3 does not. RBE2 is used when stiffness is needed, such as in bolted connections, while RBE3 is used for softer connections. The key difference is that RBE2 transfers loads from independent nodes to dependent nodes with stiffness, whereas RBE3 does so without stiffness. Examples comparing RBE2, RBE3, and a modified RBE3 connection show their effects on displacement and forces.

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102 views10 pages

RBE2 vs RBE3: Key Differences Explained

RBE2 and RBE3 are rigid elements used to connect parts in finite element analysis. RBE2 induces stiffness, while RBE3 does not. RBE2 is used when stiffness is needed, such as in bolted connections, while RBE3 is used for softer connections. The key difference is that RBE2 transfers loads from independent nodes to dependent nodes with stiffness, whereas RBE3 does so without stiffness. Examples comparing RBE2, RBE3, and a modified RBE3 connection show their effects on displacement and forces.

Uploaded by

lovew.srisri
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

RBE2 & RBE3

Reference Material
[RBE2 and RBE3]

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Introduction:

RBE2 x RBE3

A common doubt among many Structural Engineers: what's the difference between RBE2
and RBE3?

RBE2 and RBE3 are rigid geometrically one-dimensional element. They are used for
creating connections such as representing a bolted connection. Why? Modeling a bolt is
complicated, and in many cases, it is known from experience that the bolt never fails under
conditions we are simulating it for. Therefore, a web of rigid elements is connected to the
bolt holes.

Both RBE2/RBE3 are used to transfer loads from one part to another such as the example
above. There is a concept of independent and dependent nodes, which says that the
motion from independent nodes will be transferred to the dependent nodes. If there is a
single independent node, use RBE2. If there are a lot of independent nodes and one
dependent node, use RBE3. RBE2/3 can be used for applying a bending/twisting moment.

The difference between RBE2 and RBE3 is that RBE2 induces stiffness whereas RBE3
doesn't. If you need a stiff support, use RBE2; and use RBE3 for somewhat soft support.

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Example 1: Two plates with RBE2 simulation

FE Model:

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed and undeformed shapes

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed shape only

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Results: Displacement plot in X-direction

Results: Displacement plot in Y-direction

Results: MPC Forces in X-direction

Results: MPC Forces in Y-direction

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Example 2: Two plates with RBE3 simulation

FE Model:

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed and undeformed shapes

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed shape only

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Results: Displacement plot in X-direction

Results: Displacement plot in Y-direction

Results: MPC Forces in X-direction

Results: MPC Forces in Y-direction

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Example 3: Two plates with modified RBE3 simulation

FE Model:

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed and undeformed shapes

Results: Displacement plot


with deformed shape only

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3
Results: Displacement plot in X-direction

Results: Displacement plot in Y-direction

Results: MPC Forces in X-direction

Results: MPC Forces in Y-direction

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3

Comparison of results: RBE2, RBE3 and Modified RBE3 simulations

Confidential [Link]
RBE2 & RBE3

INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

Confidential [Link]

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