FLAC3D Modeling • Problem Solving with FLAC3D

Problem Solving with FLAC3D

This section provides guidance in the use of FLAC3D in problem solving for static mechanical analysis.[1] It does so by breaking the modeling process down to a sequence from project start to project completion, as follows.

Each of these modeling aspects is discussed in detail. The user who is familiar with the two-dimensional program FLAC will find that the modeling approach is very similar in FLAC3D. The major difference is the procedure for grid generation. We recommend that Grid Generation be studied carefully, and that the user grasps the techniques for grid generation presented there before creating their own model grids.

You will note that FISH programs are used in this section to assist with model generation and problem solving. If you have not used the FISH language before, we recommend that you first read Tutorial: Working with FISH.

The philosophy of modeling in the field of geomechanics was presented earlier in the modeling methodology section. The novice modeler may wish to review that section first. The methodology of modeling in geomechanics can be significantly different from that of other engineering fields, such as structural engineering. It is important to keep this in mind when performing any geomechanics analysis.


Footnotes

Footnotes

[1]Problem solving for coupled mechanical-groundwater analysis is discussed in Fluid-Mechanical Interaction, and for coupled mechanical-thermal analysis in Thermal Analysis. Problem solving for dynamic analysis is discussed in Dynamic Analysis. The fluid formulation is a standard feature of FLAC3D; thermal and dynamic analysis are available separately as FLAC3D Options.