Finite element analysis of the stress distribution in a representative elementary volume of mineral casting

Abstract

Abstract. Mineral casting is a type of polymer concrete that has started to be used in commercial machine-tools in the last few years because of its low cost of manufacturing and vibration damping capabilities. The paper presents the modelling and finite element analysis of a representative elementary volume (REV) made of mineral casting subjected to tensile loading. The aim of the paper is to assess the stress distribution that develops inside the specimen in order to understand and improve the material.