Page 24 - Moldex3d training Manual

The recommended mesh size for a constant thickness part is 1.5 x Nominal (Average) Thickness,
determined in Model Thickness. For variable/thick parts the node seeding should mimic the picture above.
This will require trial and error of the mesh size parameter.
It is important to set this node seeding correctly. If the mesh size is too small, the element count will be
large, and the computation will take longer, but if the mesh size is too large, the results resolution will be
poor, which can affect the accuracy of the results.
2.2.1.3.3.1 Manual node seeding
Once the Global Node Seeding is set, it is possible to manually adjust the node seeding on the part.
Typically, this will be done on circular features and other similar geometrical features to preserve the
geometry of the part. The user may decide that some critical features require enhanced resolution.
As an example, a circular feature with 6 nodes around the circumference will become a hexagonal feature
once the meshing is done. It is important to preserve the geometry for the best accuracy. For circular
features, it is recommended to have at least 10 nodes around the circumference.
Local refinement allows for the geometry to be preserved without increasing the element count over the
entire model.
2.2.1.3.4 Set Mesh Parameters
Once the surface mesh template is set, the solid mesh template can be set through the Parameter
function.

Set Mesh Parameters is split into two sections:
1) Geometry Meshing
a. Controls the surface/CAD objects in the modelling
2) Curve Meshing
a. Controls line-defined objects in the modelling
See Meshing Theory for recommended settings.

23