Axisymmetric problems involving axisymmetric loading and solids of revolution can be conveniently formulated with the following element type.
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When modeling axisymmetric problems, selecting 2-D axisymmetric elements allows for significant simplification in analysis by reducing the dimensions involved and focusing only on the radial and axial stresses and strains.
Axisymmetric problems, particularly those involving solids of revolution under axisymmetric loading, are most effectively modeled using 2-D axisymmetric elements. These elements allow for a reduction in dimensionality from 3-D to 2-D by exploiting the symmetry of the problem around an axis. This approach simplifies the computational model while accurately capturing the physical behavior of the system under axial symmetry. The 2-D plane stress element is well-suited for this application as it assumes that out-of-plane stresses are negligible, which is generally true for thin axisymmetric bodies.