do i need to scaling the model accordingly?

Altair Forum User

so i have a structure frame that is in 130ft x 2.5ft x 200ft with load lbs applied. But i can only create a model in CAD that is 130inx 2.5in x200in because it takes less time to run the model. So if i scale the model from ft to inches, do i also need to do a linear scale on load as well to make it even. such as dividing my load by 12?

QuyNguyenDai

It's NOT so simple!

 

Take a simple case of a beam in tension. If you increase the geometrical dimension as twice (x=2*x; y=2*y; z=2*z). The section will be increased 4 time! So if you increase your load twice, the stress of new model is only the half of initial ones!

 

Have a look at : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Similitude_(model)