Taking the stress out of FEA - the use of finite element analysis for railway applications

Over the past few years the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in the railway industry has become more widespread, becoming an essential tool in assessing the structural performance of modern vehicles and their components. The use of Finite Element Analysis has helped modern vehicles to be more cost effective, lighter, stronger, more crashworthy and more durable. This paper will highlight how Finite Element Analysis can be a valuable tool in the railway industry. It will include real examples of how FEA has been used in the design and optimisation of railway vehicle components.