Finite element parametric analysis on bearing capacity of cast steel spherical joint

Nonlinear finite element analysis of the cast steel spherical joint is performed by using ANSYS program. The deformation process, the failure mode and the effects of parameters on bearing capacity for the joint are analyzed. The results show that the outer diameter of sphere D, wall thickness of sphere t, external diameter of cast steel tube d, radius of outer fillet r which is located in the connection of sphere to cast steel tube, material strength f have remarkable effects on the bearing capacity of the joint. The results also show that with the increasing of parameter t, d, r, and f, the bearing capacity increases, and with the increasing of parameter D, the bearing capacity decreases.