Stress computation in elastoplasticity

Abstract

Stress computation in finite element materially non-linear analysis is an important problem that has perhaps been receiving less attention than it deserves. Not only does it consume a significant share of total computer time, but also inaccuracies and ‘savings’ thereupon may well jeopardize the gains aimed at by sophisticating elsewhere the numerical strategy. A well established algorithm for stress computation is reviewed in detail, illustrating a number of computational hazards and proposing simple solutions.