Bolts w/preload won’t solve (WF3 Struct)

[dgeesaman]

I've run several analyses with Bolt Fastener features. Typically I take a pair of plates, use a 2x2 set of bolts to connect them, define contact between the plates, then apply a bending load across the assembly. I've read all the PTC documents and I think I'm working entirely as they recommend. Running Wildfire3 M060.


I can get the bolts to solve in basic mode, advanced mode without preload, but when I try to use preload the solver crashes with fatal errors. I run single-pass adaptive solutions.


Has anyone ever gotten them to work with the preload option?


Any tips, experiences appreciated.


Dave
Edited by: dgeesaman

 

[dgeesaman]

I just spoke with PTC tech, and they caught a mistake I was making: I had set a contact connection between my overlapping plates when I should have been using a free interface connection.


While I like the results of this type of solution, my ego is bruised.

Dave