Run Modal Analysis

In addition to the stress analysis, you can perform a modal frequency analysis. Modal frequency analysis finds the natural frequencies at which your part vibrates, and the mode shapes at those frequencies. Like stress analysis, modal analysis is available in the stress analysis environment.

You can do a natural frequency analysis independent of a stress analysis. You can do a frequency analysis on a prestressed structure, in which case you can define loads on the part before the analysis. You can also find the natural frequencies of an unconstrained model.

Workflow: Run a modal analysis

1. Enter the stress analysis environment.
2. Start a new simulation, specifying Modal Analysis as the simulation type.
3. Verify that the material used for the part is suitable, or override the unsuitable with appropriate materials.
4. Apply the necessary constraints (optional).
5. Apply any loads (optional).
6. Adjust the mesh settings and preview the mesh (optional).
7. Click Simulate and in the dialog box, click Run.

   The results for the first eight frequency modes are inserted under the Results folder in the browser. For an unconstrained part, the first six frequencies are essentially zero.

8. To change the number of frequencies displayed right click the Simulation node (near the top of the browser), and select Edit Simulation Properties.

   In the dialog box specify the number of modes to find.

   After you complete all the required steps, the Update notification is displayed in the browser beside those sections that need updates. Right-click the node and click Update. On the Results node, right-click the node and click Simulate.