Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has been widely used in product development in industry. But application of FEA in fixturing of metal cutting process, especially in production level, has been less reported. In this study, a non-linear contact FEA model is established based on an automotive component from production. Under varied constraints and inputs, distortions of the component are simulated. Through actual measurements of the component, the FEA results are validated and the root cause of component distortion is identified. The study shows that the FEA is a powerful and promising tool for manufacturing engineers.
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