Create the Part

Defining the part geometry is generally the first step in the development of a finite element model.

Here, the plate geometry is defined to generate a 3-dimensional part.

1. Open ANSYS Mechanical APDL using the Helius PFA for ANSYS Launcher tool.
2. Click Main Menu > Preprocessor > Modeling > Create > Volumes > Block > By 2 Corners & Z.
3. In the dialog box that appears, enter the following values:
   • WP X = 0
   • WP Y = 0
   • Width = 10
   • Height = 15
   • Depth = 0.04
4. Click OK.
5. Click Main Menu > Preprocessor > Modeling > Create > Volumes > Cylinder > Solid Cylinder
6. In the dialog box that appears, enter the following values:
   • WP X = 5
   • WP Y = 7.5
   • Radius = 1.5
   • Depth = 0.04
7. Click OK.
8. Click Main Menu > Preprocessor > Modeling > Operate > Booleans > Subtract > Volumes.
9. Select the block from the Graphics Window. A message will appear noting there are two volumes at this location. Make sure Volume 1 is the Picked Volume and click OK.
10. Click OK in the Subtract Volumes dialog box.
11. Select the cylinder from the Graphics Window. Make sure Volume 2 is the Picked Volume and click OK.
12. Click OK in the Subtract Volumes dialog box. The plate geometry is now defined.