Dashpot Elements

Dashpot elements model damping effects caused by a dashpot. This damping force is proportional to the relative velocity of the two nodes that define the element. This force is along the line connecting these nodes and is in the opposite direction of the relative velocity.

Dashpot Element Parameters

When using dashpot elements, you must specify a value in the Dashpot Coefficient field. The damping force is proportional to this value and to the relative velocity between the nodes on each contact element. This force is not affected by the cross-sectional area of the element. This is the classical, standard dashpot coefficient.

Basic Steps for Use of Dashpot Elements

1. Be sure that a unit system is defined.
2. Be sure that the model is using a nonlinear analysis type.
3. Right-click the Element Type heading for the part that you want to be dashpot elements.
4. Select the Dashpot command.
5. Right-click the Element Definition heading.
6. Select the Edit Element Definition command.
7. Enter the Dashpot Coefficient that will represent the damping effect that these elements will apply to your model.
8. Press the OK button.

Parent topic: Line Elements