ANSYS Mechanical APDL Acoustic Analysis

Guide

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Acoustic Analysis ........................................................................................................... 1
1.1. The General Acoustic Equations ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2. Overview of the Acoustic Analysis Process ......................................................................................... 1
2. Using the Acoustic Analysis Tools ........................................................................................................... 5
2.1. Elements Used in an Acoustic Analysis ............................................................................................... 5
2.2. Commands Used in an Acoustic Analysis ........................................................................................... 6
2.3. Understanding Acoustic Analysis Terminology .................................................................................. 7
2.4. Acoustic Analysis Resources and Examples ........................................................................................ 8
3. Modeling for an Acoustic Analysis .......................................................................................................... 9
4. Defining the Acoustic Modeling Environment ..................................................................................... 11
4.1. Defining Element Types .................................................................................................................. 11
4.2. Specifying the System of Units ........................................................................................................ 12
5. Defining Acoustic Material Properties .................................................................................................. 15
5.1. Basic Material Parameters of Acoustic Media .................................................................................... 15
5.2. Non-Uniform Ideal Gas Material ...................................................................................................... 16
5.3. Equivalent Fluid Model of Perforated Material ................................................................................. 16
5.4. Viscous-Thermal Materials ............................................................................................................... 18
5.4.1. Acoustic Propagation in the Viscous Fluid ............................................................................... 18
5.4.2. Boundary Layer Impedance (BLI) Model .................................................................................. 18
5.4.3. Low Reduced Frequency (LRF) Model ..................................................................................... 19
6. Specifying Acoustic Analysis Region Attributes and Meshing ............................................................ 21
7. Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis ....................................................................... 23
7.1. Applying Boundary Conditions ....................................................................................................... 23
7.1.1. Pressure Boundary ................................................................................................................. 23
7.1.2. Rigid Wall Boundary ............................................................................................................... 24
7.1.3. Surface Impedance Boundary ................................................................................................. 24
7.1.4. Free Surface (Sloshing Effect) .................................................................................................. 25
7.2. Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC) .............................................................................................. 25
7.3. Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs) ..................................................................................................... 27
8. Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis .......................................................... 33
8.1. Applying Acoustic Excitation Sources .............................................................................................. 33
8.1.1. Pressure Excitation ................................................................................................................. 34
8.1.2. Outward Normal Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation .................................................................. 34
8.1.3. Arbitrary Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation .............................................................................. 35
8.1.4. Analytic Incident Wave Sources .............................................................................................. 36
8.1.5. Mass Source (Mass Source Rate) .............................................................................................. 37
8.2. Applying Acoustic Loads ................................................................................................................. 38
8.2.1. Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix ........................................................................ 38
8.2.2. Impedance Sheet ................................................................................................................... 41
8.2.3. Equivalent Surface Source ...................................................................................................... 41
8.2.3.1. Flagging an Equivalent Source Surface ........................................................................... 42
8.2.4. Surface Port ........................................................................................................................... 42
9. Accounting for Acoustic Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) .................................................................... 45
10. Solving an Acoustic Analysis ............................................................................................................... 47
10.1. Acoustic Analysis Solution Settings ............................................................................................... 47
10.1.1. Modal Analysis Settings ........................................................................................................ 47
10.1.2. Harmonic Analysis Settings .................................................................................................. 48
10.1.2.1. Full Harmonic Analysis ................................................................................................. 48
10.1.2.1.1. Setting the Analysis Frequencies ......................................................................... 48
10.1.2.1.2. Specifying the Analysis Solver ............................................................................. 49
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Acoustic Analysis Guide

10.1.2.1.3. Selecting the Scattered Formulation for Harmonic Analysis .................................. 49
10.1.2.2. Mode Superposition Harmonic Analysis ....................................................................... 50
10.1.3. Transient Analysis Settings .................................................................................................... 50
10.2. Starting and Finishing the Solution ................................................................................................ 51
11. Using Advanced Solution Techniques in an Acoustic Analysis ........................................................... 53
11.1. One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics .............................................................................. 53
11.2. Linear Perturbation in an Acoustic Application .............................................................................. 54
12. Postprocessing Acoustic Analysis Results .......................................................................................... 57
12.1. Helpful Postprocessing Commands ............................................................................................... 57
12.2. Postprocessing a Harmonic Acoustic Analysis ................................................................................ 58
12.2.1. Reviewing Analysis Results ................................................................................................... 58
12.2.2. Calculating Near Fields, Far Fields, and Far-Field Parameters ................................................... 59
12.2.2.1. Accounting for Model Symmetry .................................................................................. 59
12.2.2.2. Radiation Solid Angle .................................................................................................. 60
12.2.2.3. Near Sound Pressure Field ............................................................................................ 60
12.2.2.4. Far Sound Pressure Field and Far-Field Parameters ........................................................ 60
12.2.2.5. Far-Field Microphone ................................................................................................... 60
12.2.3. Calculating Acoustic Propagation Parameters ....................................................................... 61
12.3. Postprocessing a Modal or Transient Acoustic Analysis ................................................................... 62
13. Acoustic Analysis Examples ................................................................................................................ 63
13.1. Example: Acoustic-Structural Coupled Modal Resonance of an Annular Ring Submerged in Water
with a Harmonic Analysis ...................................................................................................................... 63
13.2. Example: Sloshing Modes of a Cylindrical Cavity ............................................................................. 65
13.3. Example: Resonant Frequencies in a Pipe with Ideal Gas ................................................................. 66
13.4. Example: Acoustic Harmonic Response in a Room .......................................................................... 68
13.5. Example: Transmission Loss of a Muffler ......................................................................................... 70
13.6. Example: Johnson-Champoux-Allard Model of a Perforated Material .............................................. 71
13.7. Example: Transfer Admittance Matrix in Fluid ................................................................................. 72
13.8. Example: Boundary Layer Impedance Model of a Rigid Walled Waveguide with Viscous-Thermal
Fluid ..................................................................................................................................................... 74
13.9. Example: Radiation from Two Waveguides ..................................................................................... 75
13.10. Example: Radiation from a Dipole ................................................................................................ 77
13.11. Example: Monopole Incident Wave Scattering of a Rigid Sphere ................................................... 79
13.12. Example: Planar Incident Wave FSI Scattering of an Infinite Cylindrical Shell .................................. 80
13.13. Example: One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics ............................................................. 83
13.14. Example: Modal Analysis of an Acoustic-Structural Coupled Structure with Nonlinear Static Prestress
Using Linear Perturbation ..................................................................................................................... 85

iv

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List of Figures
4.1. Acoustic-Structural Interaction Model ................................................................................................... 12
6.1. Sound Pressure Distribution and FEM Model ......................................................................................... 21
7.1. Spherical ABC for Symmetry and Near the Radiation Outlet ................................................................... 26
7.2. 1-D Multiple PMLs for Pipes ................................................................................................................... 27
7.3. PML Enclosure ...................................................................................................................................... 28
7.4. Attenuation Distribution ....................................................................................................................... 29
7.5. Buffer Elements .................................................................................................................................... 29
7.6. Distance Between Source/Objects and PML Region ............................................................................... 30
7.7. PML Near the Radiation Outlet .............................................................................................................. 31
8.1. Spherical Coordinates ........................................................................................................................... 36
8.2. Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix ....................................................................................... 39

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List of Tables
1.1. Acoustic Analysis Steps ........................................................................................................................... 2
2.1. Acoustic Element Properties ................................................................................................................... 5
2.2. Primary Acoustic Analysis Commands ..................................................................................................... 6
2.3. Secondary Acoustic Analysis Commands ................................................................................................. 7
4.1. Key Options for FLUID30, FLUID220, and FLUID221 ................................................................................. 11
4.2. Key Options for FLUID130 ..................................................................................................................... 11
4.3. SI Units ................................................................................................................................................. 12
5.1. Equivalent Fluid Models of Perforated Material ...................................................................................... 17
5.2. Low Reduced Frequency Models ........................................................................................................... 19
7.1. Acoustic Boundary Conditions .............................................................................................................. 23
7.2. Surface Impedance Boundary Conditions .............................................................................................. 24
8.1. Acoustic Excitation Sources ................................................................................................................... 33
8.2. Acoustic Analytic Incident Wave Sources ............................................................................................... 36
8.3. Acoustic Loads ...................................................................................................................................... 38
8.4. Transfer Admittance Matrix Models of Perforated Structures: TB,PERF,,,,TBOPT ....................................... 39
10.1. Acoustic Eigen Equations and Solvers .................................................................................................. 47
11.1. Acoustic Linear Perturbation Analysis Process ...................................................................................... 55
12.1. Postprocessing Commands ................................................................................................................. 57
12.2. Plotting Commands ............................................................................................................................ 57

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viii

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Chapter 1: Introduction to Acoustic Analysis

The following topics introducing you to acoustic analysis are available:
1.1.The General Acoustic Equations
1.2. Overview of the Acoustic Analysis Process

1.1. The General Acoustic Equations

Acoustic analysis is available in the ANSYS Multiphysics and ANSYS Mechanical products. This type of
analysis simulates the generation and propagation properties of either the coupled acoustic-structural
interaction (FSI) or the uncoupled pure acoustic wave in the given environment. Support is available
for modal, time-harmonic, and transient acoustic analysis.
The program assumes that the fluid is compressible with zero mean flow. Only relatively small pressure
changes are allowed with respect to the mean pressure. An acoustic analysis usually involves modeling
the acoustic phenomena in an acoustic fluid and in a structure. A coupled acoustic-structural interaction
analysis takes the structural dynamics equation into account, along with the linearized Navier-Stokes
equations of fluid momentum and the flow continuity equation. A pure acoustic analysis models the
acoustics fluid.
In an acoustic analysis, one of the two following matrix equations is solved. For pure acoustic phenomena,
the program solves for this finite element dynamic matrix equation:
F e +

F e +

e = F

where [MF], [CF], and [KF] are the mass, damping, and stiffness matrices, respectively, and {fF} is the external excitation vector in the acoustic fluid.
In acoustic-structural interaction application, the program solves for the fully coupled finite element
dynamic matrix equation:

T
0

{
} S

+
{
}

{
} S
+
{
}

{
} S
=

{
}

where [MS], [CS], and [KS] are the mass, damping, and stiffness matrices, respectively, and {fS} is the external force vector in the structure. [R] is the coupled matrix and represents the coupling conditions on
the interface between the acoustic fluid and the structure.
For more information about the matrices, see the Derivation of Acoustic Matrices and Acoustic FluidStructural Interaction (FSI) sections in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

1.2. Overview of the Acoustic Analysis Process

In general, the program simulates interior problems or exterior problems as well as FSI problems.

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Introduction to Acoustic Analysis

For interior problems, a sound wave propagates or oscillates in a closed structure. The oscillating frequencies and transmission loss (TL) are usually investigated. For exterior problems, a sound wave radiates
into open space or it is scattered by a structural object in the open domain.
The radiation sound power level (Lw), directive gain, or target strength (TS) is usually investigated. The
programs applications include, but are not limited to, sonar, noise investigation, acoustic design of architecture, underwater acoustics, and the design of acoustic devices.
An acoustic analysis involves most of the general steps found in any analysis. Following is the general
process for performing an acoustic analysis:
Table 1.1: Acoustic Analysis Steps
Step
1.

Tasks
Build the model.

Comments
An acoustic model generally consists of fluid domain,
structural parts, FSI interfaces, sound excitations, and
the truncation of the infinite domain.
ANSYS Workbench may help in building the model
easily.

2.

Set up the model environment.

Acoustic analysis is supported by the FLUID29, FLUID30, FLUID220, and FLUID221 elements.
The FLUID129 and FLUID130 elements can act as absorbing elements to truncate the infinite fluid domain.
The FLUID29 element may not support some 3-D element features. See the documentation for that element
in the Element Reference.

3.

Define material properties.

Defining the material properties for an acoustic analysis

is no different from any other analysis. Use the MP or
TB commands to define linear or nonlinear material
properties.
The equivalent fluid model is defined by the TB command. For more information, see Defining Material
Properties in the Basic Analysis Guide and Sophisticated
Acoustic Media in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

4.

Mesh the model.

Use meshing commands to mesh the different parts

of the model. Certain areas may require more detailed
meshing or special considerations.
To ensure a reliable solution, either ten elements per
wavelength for low-order elements or five elements
per wavelength for high-order elements are required
at the highest working frequency.
For more information, see the Modeling and Meshing
Guide.

5.

Define the boundary

conditions.

Define the boundary conditions using the D or SF

command. The absorbing element FLUID130 or the

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Overview of the Acoustic Analysis Process

Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) can achieve better accuracy for an open domain problem. For more information refer to Acoustic Boundary Conditions, Absorbing
Boundary Condition (ABC), or Perfectly Matched Layers
(PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
6.

Define the loads and excitations.

Define the loads and excitations (D, SF, or BF).

If the analytic wave sources are required, issue the
AWAVE command.
The trim element with transfer admittance matrix is
defined by the TB command for perforated structures.
For more information, see Defining Material Properties
in the Basic Analysis Guide and Sophisticated Acoustic
Media in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

7.

Account for the FSI effect.

Use the SF command to account for the acoustic fluidstructural interaction (FSI) effect. The solution for FSI
with the strong coupled matrix is performed.
For more information, see Acoustic Fluid-Structural
Interaction (FSI) in theMechanical APDL Theory Reference.

8.

Solve the model.

The solution phase of an acoustic analysis adheres to

standard ANSYS conventions, although the FSI coupled
matrices may not be symmetric. Modal, harmonic, and
transient analyses may be performed.
You may choose the symmetric algorithm for coupled
matrices in a modal or harmonic analysis.
The pure scattered pressure formulation is also available for the analytic incident wave, for more information see Pure Scattered Pressure Formulation in the
Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
You can use structural results as the acoustic excitation
source using one-way coupling process (ASIFILE).
You can take the nonlinear static analysis into account
and use a morphed mesh for the acoustic-structural
coupled solution via a linear perturbation scheme.

9.

Postprocess the acoustic

analysis.

Use the POST1 general postprocessor and the POST26

time history postprocessor to review results.
Specific commands are available in POST1 for nearand far-field parameters (PRNEAR, PLNEAR, PRFAR,
PLFAR, *GET) and for sound power data (SPOWER).

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Chapter 2: Using the Acoustic Analysis Tools

The following tools and resources are available to facilitate an acoustic analysis:
2.1. Elements Used in an Acoustic Analysis
2.2. Commands Used in an Acoustic Analysis
2.3. Understanding Acoustic Analysis Terminology
2.4. Acoustic Analysis Resources and Examples

2.1. Elements Used in an Acoustic Analysis

These elements are available for acoustic analysis: FLUID29, FLUID129, FLUID30, FLUID130, FLUID220,
and FLUID221. Element properties are as follows:
Table 2.1: Acoustic Element Properties
Element
FLUID29

Attribute
2-D 4-node quadrilateral
with triangle degeneracy

Degrees of Freedom per Node

UX, UY, PRES (coupled element)
PRES (uncoupled element)

FLUID129

2-D 2-node line

PRES

FLUID30

3-D 8-node hexagonal with

prism with tetrahedral and
pyramid degeneracy

UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled element)

PRES (uncoupled element)
UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled modal symmetric
matrix)

FLUID130

3-D 4- or 8-node quadrilater- PRES

al surface with triangle degeneracy

FLUID220

3-D 20-node hexagonal with UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled element)
pyramid and prism degenerPRES (uncoupled element)
acy
UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled modal symmetric
matrix)

FLUID221

3-D 10-node tetrahedral

UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled element)

PRES (uncoupled element)
UX, UY, UZ, PRES (coupled modal symmetric
matrix)

One element shape (hexahedral, wedge, or tetrahedral), or any combination of shapes, can be used in
a 3-D acoustic model. The pyramid elements are transitional elements between the hexahedral and
tetrahedral elements.

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Using the Acoustic Analysis Tools

Example 2.1: Creating Mixed Hexahedral and Wedge Elements
/prep7
et,1,220
et,11,200,5
et,12,200,7
rect,0,1,0,1
rect,1,2,0,1
aglue,all
esize,0.25
asel,s,loc,x,0,1
type,11
mshape,1
amesh,all
asel,s,loc,x,1,2
type,12
mshape,0
amesh,all
alls
esize,,4
type,1
asel,s,loc,z,0
vext,all,,,0,0,1
fini

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

define hexahedral element

define 2-D 6-node triangle mesh element
define 2-D 8-node quadrilateral mesh element
create area 1
create area 2
glue areas together
define the element size
select area 1
select triangle element type
define the triangle element shape
mesh area 1 with triangle mesh element
select area 2
select quadrilateral mesh element type
define the element quadrilateral shape
mesh area 2 with quadrilateral mesh element

!
!
!
!

define
select
select
create

element operation
hexahedral element
2-D element
3-D elements by extruding 2-D elements

Example 2.2: Creating Mixed Hexahedral, Pyramid, and Tetrahedral Elements

/prep7
ch=10.16e-3
cw=22.86e-3
cl=2.e-2
h=2.e-3
et,1,220,1
et,2,221,1
block,-cw/2,0,-ch/2,ch/2,0,cl/2
block,-cw/2,0,-ch/2,ch/2,cl/2,cl
vglue,all
esize,h
type,1
mshape,0,3d
mshkey,1
vmesh,1
mshape,1,3d
mshkey,0
vmesh,3
tchg,220,221,2
fini

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

define hexahedral element

define tet element
create volume 1
create volume 2
glue volumes together
define element size
select hexahedral element type
define hexahedral mesh
use mapped mesh
mesh first volume
define tetrahedral element
use free meshing
mesh second mesh
covert degenerated brick into tet

Although a geometrically complex structure can be meshed with tetrahedral elements, it may require
many elements and lead to a more computationally expensive simulation. Even a regularly shaped
volume may require many tetrahedral elements if it has a very large aspect ratio. In such a case, hexahedral or wedge elements are a better choice.

2.2. Commands Used in an Acoustic Analysis

The following commands are commonly used in an acoustic analysis:
Table 2.2: Primary Acoustic Analysis Commands
Command

Comments

ASIFILE

Defines writing or reading the one-way acoustic-structural

coupling data to or from a file.

ASOL

Specify an acoustic harmonic analysis with the scattered

pressure formulation.

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Understanding Acoustic Analysis Terminology

ASCRES

Output control for an acoustic scattering analysis.

AWAVE

Defines the analytic acoustic incident wave source.

HFANG

Defines spatial angles of a spherical radiation surface for

an acoustic radiator.

HFSYM

Indicates the presence of symmetry planes for the computation of an acoustic field in the near- or far-field domains
(beyond the finite element region).

PLFAR

Plots acoustic far-field parameters.

PLNEAR

Plots the acoustic parameters in the near zone exterior to

the equivalent source surface.

PMLOPT

Defines perfectly matched layers (PML).

PMLSIZE

Determines the number of PML layers.

PRFAR

Prints acoustic far-field parameters.

PRNEAR

Prints the acoustic parameters in the near zone exterior to

the equivalent source surface.

SPOWER

Calculates sound power data of a multi-port network.

Table 2.3: Secondary Acoustic Analysis Commands

Command

Comments

BF

Defines the acoustic body loads.

HARFRQ

Defines the frequency range in the harmonic analysis, including the octave bands.

MORPH

Specify the morphing operation in an acoustic linear perturbation.

NSOL

Prints the solution results for nodes.

PLNSOL

Plots the acoustic solution results for nodes.

PRNSOL

Prints the acoustic solution results for nodes.

SF

Defines the acoustic surface loads and flags.

2.3. Understanding Acoustic Analysis Terminology

The following common terms are used throughout this guide:
Interior problem

The sound wave oscillates in an enclosure or propagates

to the infinity in a constrained structure.

Exterior problem

The sound wave radiates or is scattered into the infinite

open space.

FSI

Acoustic fluid-structural interaction.

Coupled element

Acoustic element with FSI interface.

Uncoupled element

Acoustic element without FSI interface.

PML

Perfectly matched layers.

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Using the Acoustic Analysis Tools

Sound-hard surface

A surface on which particle normal velocity is zero.

Sound-soft surface

A surface on which sound pressure is constrained.

Transparent port

An exterior surface on which incident pressure is launched

into the acoustic model and the reflected pressure wave
is fully absorbed by a defined matched impedance that
represents the infinity.

Vibro port

An exterior surface on which incident pressure is launched

into the acoustic model by the vibration of the structural
surface.

2.4. Acoustic Analysis Resources and Examples

The following additional ANSYS, Inc. documentation is available for further information about acoustics
and related rotational phenomena:
Acoustics in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference
Elements for Acoustic Analysis in the Element Reference
Acoustic Analysis of a Small Speaker System in the Technology Demonstration Guide
Also see Acoustic Analysis Examples (p. 63) in this guide.
Finally, the Mechanical APDL Verification Manual contains the following acoustics cases:
VM157 - 3-D Acoustic Modal Analysis with Temperature Change
VM177 - Natural Frequency of a Submerged Ring
VM242 - Johnson-Chamoux-Allard Equivalent Fluid Model
VM282 - Mode Superposition Response Analysis of a Piston-Fluid System
VM283 - Low Reduced Frequency Model for Visco-thermal Fluid with Thin Structure
VMR083-CA1 - Sound Radiation of a Vibrating Sphere
VMR083-CA2 - Sound Radiation of a Cylinder with Vibrating Lateral Surface

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Chapter 3: Modeling for an Acoustic Analysis

Use either the preprocessor (/PREP7) or ANSYS DesignModeler to create the model geometry. The
model-building process is common to most analyses. For more information, see the Modeling and
Meshing Guide.
To begin, specify a jobname and title for your analysis.

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Chapter 4: Defining the Acoustic Modeling Environment

The following topics describe the features and applications of the 3-D elements used in an acoustic
analysis:
4.1. Defining Element Types
4.2. Specifying the System of Units

4.1. Defining Element Types

To specify element type numbers and key options for acoustic elements, issue the ET command.
The key options (KEYOPTs) shown in the following two tables define the acoustic element properties:
Table 4.1: Key Options for FLUID30, FLUID220, and FLUID221
KEYOPT
KEYOPT(1)

KEYOPT(2)
KEYOPT(4)

Options

Element Definitions

No specification

Symmetric modal formulation

Symmetric harmonic formulation

Coupled element

Uncoupled element

Normal element

Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) element

Table 4.2: Key Options for FLUID130

KEYOPT
KEYOPT(1)

Options

Element Definitions

4-node surface element

8-node surface element

The following figure shows an example of coupled acoustic-structural interaction:

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Defining the Acoustic Modeling Environment

Figure 4.1: Acoustic-Structural Interaction Model

Example 4.1: Defining Element Types

The following example input defines second-order coupled, uncoupled, and PML elements:
et,1,220,,0,,0
et,1,220,,1,,0
et,1,220,,1,,1

! coupled brick element with DOF: UX,UY,UX,PRES

! uncoupled brick element with DOF: PRES
! uncoupled PML brick element with DOF: PRES

4.2. Specifying the System of Units

Acoustic analysis uses various unit systems (/UNITS), but uses the SI system as the default.
For more information about available units systems, see System of Units in the Coupled-Field Analysis
Guide.
The following table lists the physical quantities used for an acoustic analysis in the SI units system:
Table 4.3: SI Units
Unit Name

Unit Symbol

Quantity

meter

length

kilogram

kg

mass

second

time

kelvin

thermodynamic temperature

hertz

Hz

frequency

newton

force, weight

kgm/s2

pascal

Pa

pressure

N/m2

joule

energy, heat

Nm

watt

power

J/s

mass density

kg/m3

12

Expressed in terms of other SI

units

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Specifying the System of Units

c

sound speed

m/s

dynamic viscosity

Pas

thermal conductivity

W/mK

cp

heat coefficient at a constant

pressure per mass

J/K

cv

heat coefficient at a constant

volume per mass

J/K

impedance

Ns/m3

Support for defining a custom system of units is available via the /UNITS command. Typically, the length
and mass conversion factor, as well as the offset of the temperature, are defined. The program converts
the remaining quantities, including the static pressure, reference pressure, and reference power. The
matrices may have matrix conditions with other systems of units than either the SI or MKS system for
acoustic fluid-structural interaction (FSI) models.
Example 4.2: Defining the System of Units
/batch
/units,cgs

! batch mode
! cgs units

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Chapter 5: Defining Acoustic Material Properties

The following topics describing how to define acoustic material properties are available:
5.1. Basic Material Parameters of Acoustic Media
5.2. Non-Uniform Ideal Gas Material
5.3. Equivalent Fluid Model of Perforated Material
5.4. Viscous-Thermal Materials

5.1. Basic Material Parameters of Acoustic Media

Several primary commands are available to define basic acoustic material properties:
MP
TB,AFDM,,,,MAT
TBFIELD
TBDATA,1,DENS,SONC,VISC,KXX,CPH,CVH
TBDATA,7,BVIS
Acoustic analyses require the mass density (MP,DENS) and sound speed (MP,SONC) of the acoustic
fluid.
For viscous-thermal material, the dynamic viscosity (MP,VISC), bulk viscosity (MP,BVIS), thermal conductivity (MP,KXX), heat coefficient at constant volume (MP,CVH), and heat coefficient at constant pressure
(MP,C) are defined.
Example 5.1: Defining Acoustic Material Properties (MP)
The following example input defines the acoustic material properties of air via the MP command:
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
mp,visc,1,1.827e-5
mp,bvis,1,1.096e-5
mp,kxx,1,0.0257
mp,cvh,1,0.718
mp,c,1,1.005

!
!
!
!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
dynamic viscosity
bulk viscosity
thermal conductivity
heat coefficient at a constant volume per mass
heat coefficient at a constant pressure per mass

Frequency-dependent material properties are defined via the TB,AFDM,,,,MAT command. Material values
defined by TB,AFDM override the values defined by MP.
Frequency-dependent material properties are interpolated if the working frequency is not one of the
frequencies defined via the TBFIELD command.
Example 5.2: Defining Frequency-Dependent Acoustic Material Properties (TB)
The following example input defines frequency-dependent acoustic material properties via the TB
command:
tb,afdm,1,,,mat
! basic acoustic materials
tbfield,freq,f1
! table at frequency f1
tbdata,1,dens1,sonc1,visc1,therm1,cph1,cvh1 ! material parameters table
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15

Defining Acoustic Material Properties

tbdata,7,bvis1
tbfield,freq,f2
! table frequency f2
tbdata,1,dens2,sonc2,visc2,therm2,cph2,cvh2 ! material parameters table
tbdata,7,bvis2

Listing the Defined Material Properties

The MPLIST command lists the material properties defined via the MP command.
The TBLIST command lists the frequency-dependent material properties defined via the TB command.

5.2. Non-Uniform Ideal Gas Material

In non-uniform acoustic media, both mass density and sound speed vary with the spatial position and
are derived by the ideal gas law.
To set up a non-uniform ideal gas model:
1. Define the temperature T0 via the TREF command (defaults to 22 C).
2. Define the density 0 and sound speed C0 at the reference temperature T0 via the MP,DENS and MP,SONC
commands.
3. Define the reference static pressure Psref via the R,,Psref command.
4. Define the spatial static pressure Ps via the BF,,CHRGD command.
5. Define the spatial temperature via the BF,,TEMP command.
The ideal gas model does not support the MPTEMP and MPDATA commands for mass density and
sound speed. Mass density and sound speed are defined at a reference temperature, and the ideal gas
model calculates the temperature-dependent nodal mass density and sound speed.
Example 5.3: Defining a Non-Uniform Ideal Gas Model
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
r,1,pref,psref
tref,22
nsel,s,loc,x
bf,all,chrgd,101325
bf,all,temp,100

!
!
!
!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
static reference pressure
reference temperature
nodes at x=0
static pressure on nodes
temperature on nodes

For more information, see Non-uniform Acoustic Media in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

5.3. Equivalent Fluid Model of Perforated Material

Several equivalent fluid models are available to approximate the perforated material with the rigid
skeleton.
The equivalent model uses the wave equation with complex effective density and velocity.

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Equivalent Fluid Model of Perforated Material

Define an equivalent fluid model via the TB,PERF,,,,TBOPT command. The following table shows the
valid TBOPT values and input parameters necessary for defining equivalent fluid models:
Table 5.1: Equivalent Fluid Models of Perforated Material
Model

TBOPT

Input Parameters

JCA

Johnson-Champoux-Allard

Fluid Resistivity , Porosity , Tortuosity

, Viscous Characteristic Length ,
Thermal Characteristic Length

DLB

Delany-Bazley

Fluid Resistivity (0.01 < f/ <1.00)

MIKI

Miki

Fluid Resistivity (f/ < 1.00)

ZPRO

Complex Impedance and Propagating

Constant

Resistance Rs, Reactance Xs, Attenuation

Constant , Phase Constant

CDV

Complex Density and Velocity

Complex Effective Density and Velocity

Additional parameters dynamic (shear) viscosity , thermal conductivity , heat coefficient at a constant
pressure Cp, heat coefficient at a constant pressure Cv, and static reference pressure P0 should be defined
for the Johnson-Champoux-Allard model. When the Johnson-Champoux-Allard model is provided with
ten inputs, it has better numerical accuracy than the Delany-Bazley or the Miki models, which require
only one input parameter.
In the absence of multiple parameters, except for fluid resistivity, either the Delany-Bazley of Miki
model can be a viable option for predicting the properties of a perforated material. The working range
of the Delany-Bazley model limits it to 0.01 < f/ <1.00 where f is the frequency, while the Miki model
extends to f/ < 0.01 for low frequencies.
For general damping material problems (depending on the availability of parameters), use either the
ZPRO or CDV model.
Specify the frequency-dependent equivalent fluid model of the perforated material as follows:
TB,PERF,,,,TBOPT
TBFIELD,FREQ,VALUE
TBDATA,,C1,C2,C3,C4,C5
The equivalent fluid model of perforated materials supports a full harmonic acoustic analysis only.
Example 5.4: Defining a Frequency-Dependent Johnson-Champoux-Allard Model
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
mp,visc,1,1.827e-5
mp,kxx,1,0.0257
mp,cvh,1,0.718
mp,c,1,1.005
tb,perf,1,,,jca
tbfield,freq,f1
tbdata,1,sig1,phi1,alp1,vis1,thr1
tbfield,freq,f2
tbdata,1,sig2,phi2,alp2,vis2,thr2

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
dynamic viscosity
thermal conductivity
heat coefficient at a constant volume per mass
heat coefficient at a constant pressure per mass
JCA model
table at f1
JCA parameters at f1
table at f2
JCA parameters at f2

Example 5.5: Defining a Frequency-Dependent Complex Effective Density and Sound Speed Model
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
tb,perf,1,,,cdv
tbfield,freq,f1

!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
complex effective density and velocity model
table at f1

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Defining Acoustic Material Properties

tbdata,1,denr1,deni1,cr1,ci1 ! complex density and velocity at f1
tbfield,freq,f2
! table at f2
tbdata,1,denr2,deni2,cr2,ci2 ! complex density and velocity at f2

Trimming the perforated structures to a transfer admittance matrix avoids dense mesh and creates excellent numerical accuracy. See Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix (p. 38).
For more information, see Equivalent Fluid of Perforated Materials in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

5.4. Viscous-Thermal Materials

The following topics related to viscous-thermal materials in an acoustic analysis are available:
5.4.1. Acoustic Propagation in the Viscous Fluid
5.4.2. Boundary Layer Impedance (BLI) Model
5.4.3. Low Reduced Frequency (LRF) Model

5.4.1. Acoustic Propagation in the Viscous Fluid

An acoustic propagating wave in a viscous media is dampened due to the viscosity of the fluid. The
interaction between the acoustic pressure wave in a viscous fluid and a rigid wall is not taken into account.
Define the viscosity of a fluid via the MP,VISC command.
Example 5.6: Defining a Viscous Material
mp,dens,1,1.21
! mass density
mp,sonc,1,343
! sound speed
mp,visc,1,1.827e-5 ! dynamic viscosity

For more information, see Acoustic Fundamentals in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

5.4.2. Boundary Layer Impedance (BLI) Model

The interaction between an acoustic pressure wave in a viscous fluid and a rigid wall is taken into account.
Specify a rigid wall as a boundary layer via the SF,Nlist,BLI command.
BLI models are supported in full harmonic acoustic analyses only.
Example 5.7: Defining a BLI Model
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
mp,visc,1,1.827e-5
mp,bvis,1,1.096e-5
mp,kxx,1,0.0257
mp,cvh,1,0.718
mp,c,1,1.005

!
!
!
!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
dynamic viscosity
bulk viscosity
thermal conductivity
heat coefficient at a constant volume per mass
heat coefficient at a constant pressure per mass

nsel,s,ext
sf,all,bli

! select exterior nodes

! flag boundary layer

For more information, see Boundary Layer Impedance (BLI) Model in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

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Viscous-Thermal Materials

5.4.3. Low Reduced Frequency (LRF) Model

The interaction between an acoustic pressure wave in a viscous fluid and a rigid wall is taken into account
for specific structures according to low reduced frequency (LRF) approximation.
Define the LRF model via the TB,AFDM,,,,TBOPT command.
The following table shows the valid TBOPT values and input parameters for the LRF model in a viscousthermal fluid:
Table 5.2: Low Reduced Frequency Models
Comments

TBOPT

Input Parameters

THIN

Thin layer between two rigid plates

Thickness of the layer

RECT

A tube with a rectangular cross section

Width and height of the rectangle

CIRC

A tube with a circular cross section

Radius of the circle

LRF models are supported in full harmonic acoustic analyses only.

Example 5.8: Defining an LRF Model
The following example input defines a low reduced frequency model with a thin layer:
mp,dens,1,1.21
mp,sonc,1,343
mp,visc,1,1.827e-5
mp,kxx,1,0.0257
mp,cvh,1,0.718
mp,c,1,1.005

!
!
!
!
!
!

mass density
sound speed
dynamic viscosity
thermal conductivity
heat coefficient at a constant volume per mass
heat coefficient at a constant pressure per mass

tb,afdm,1,,,thin
tbfield,freq,f1
tbdata,1,thick1
tbfield,freq,f2
tbdata,1, thick2

!
!
!
!
!

basic acoustic materials

table at frequency f1
material parameters table
table frequency f2
material parameters table

For more information, see Low Reduced Frequency (LRF) Model in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

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Chapter 6: Specifying Acoustic Analysis Region Attributes and

Meshing
Attributes assigned to a model prior to meshing include element type and material number. Assign
these attributes to a region (VATT) for volumes to be meshed with 3-D elements (FLUID30, FLUID220,
and FLUID221). Specify different material ID numbers for the various material regions.
For an acoustic FEA formulation, the mesh must be fine enough to minimize numerical dispersion effects
from finite discretization. In general, the mesh should have at least ten low-order elements and five
high-order elements per propagating or resonant wavelength of the material.
If different materials are present in the model, the mesh should have a smooth transition from the
dense to the coarse. To obtain better accuracy and efficiency, use your best judgment and knowledge
of the sound pressure field to determine appropriate mesh density. For example, if the pressure varies
sinusoidally along the wide side of a rectangular cross section and is uniform along the narrow side,
you might choose to mesh the cross section as shown in this figure:
Figure 6.1: Sound Pressure Distribution and FEM Model

Do not mix low-order and high-order elements together in a model. Unlike low-order elements, highorder elements have midside nodes to follow the curvature of a model.
If using MESH200 elements to generate 3-D acoustic elements FLUID30, FLUID220, or FLUID221 (VEXT),
select one of the following MESH200 options:
KEYOPT(1) = 4 for 3-D triangle elements, used for FLUID30
KEYOPT(1) = 5 for 3-D triangle elements with midside nodes, used for FLUID221
KEYOPT(1) = 6 for 3-D quadrilateral elements, used for FLUID30
KEYOPT(1) = 7 for 3-D quadrilateral elements with midside nodes, used for FLUID220
Example 6.1: Generating FLUID220 Elements
The following input example uses MESH200 elements to generate FLUID220 elements:
et,1,220,,1
et,11,200,7

Rect,0,d,0,d
type,11
amesh,all
asel,s,loc,z,0
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Specifying Acoustic Analysis Region Attributes and Meshing

etype,1
esize,,2
vext,all,,,,,dz
aclear,all
etdele,11

fini

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Chapter 7: Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis

Most boundary conditions can be applied to an acoustic analysis, either on the solid model entities or
on the finite element model entities. Applying boundary conditions to the solid model is advantageous
in that they are independent of the underlying finite element mesh.
The following related topics are available:
7.1. Applying Boundary Conditions
7.2. Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC)
7.3. Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs)

7.1. Applying Boundary Conditions

The following table shows the boundary conditions available for an acoustic analysis:
Table 7.1: Acoustic Boundary Conditions
Boundary Condition

Solid Model Entities

FE Model Entities

Pressure (Sound-Soft Boundary, SSB)

Lines or Areas

Nodes

Rigid Wall (Sound-Hard Boundary, SHB)

None required

None required

Impedance Boundary Condition (IBC)

Areas

Nodes

Free Surface (Sloshing Effect)

Areas

Nodes

Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC)

Areas

Nodes

Perfectly Matched Layers (PML)

Not Applicable

Elements

For general information about applying boundary conditions, see Loading in the Basic Analysis Guide.

7.1.1. Pressure Boundary

The pressure boundary is a Dirichlet boundary with p = p0. To apply pressure to the nodes of a finite
element model, issue the D,Node,PRES command.
Example 7.1: Applying Pressure to Nodes
nsel,s,loc,z,0.0
d,all,pres,dispr,dispi

! select the nodes

! complex pressure

If using coupled acoustic elements (KEYOPT(2) = 0), avoid zero-pivot warning messages by setting the
displacement degrees of freedom (UX, UY, and UZ) at the element nodes not on the interface to zero.
Example 7.2: Applying Displacement to Nodes
nsel,s,loc,z,0.0
d,all,ux,0
d,all,uy,0
d,all,uz,0

!
!
!
!

select the nodes

zero ux
zero uy
zero uz

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Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis

7.1.2. Rigid Wall Boundary

^
= applied. It is not necessary to specify
The rigid wall boundary is a Neumann boundary with
a rigid wall boundary condition in an FEM acoustic analysis, as it is a natural boundary condition.

If the pressure spatial distribution can be predicted, the Neumann boundary can be used on the symmetric plane of the model to reduce the model size.

7.1.3. Surface Impedance Boundary

Table 7.2: Surface Impedance Boundary Conditions (p. 24) shows surface impedance boundary conditions
available for acoustic analysis. The sound pressure is damped on the impedance boundary and you can
use it to approximate infinity.
Table 7.2: Surface Impedance Boundary Conditions
Boundary Condition

Definition

SF Command Label

Infinite Radiation Boundary

Z=0C0

INF

Boundary with Absorption

Coefficient
Impedance Boundary

= 0

Z=Zr+jZi

ATTN

IMPD

The infinite radiation boundary assumes the ratio of the pressure and outward normal velocity is equal
to Z0 = 0C0. When the radiation boundary is close to the objects or the radiators, the outgoing pressure
wave may no longer hold the ratio Z0 and a numerical error may occur. Using either an absorbing
boundary element or a Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) is more accurate for modeling the far-field radiation boundary. An infinite radiation boundary can be applied to the nodes of the finite element
model via the SF,Nlist,INF command:
Example 7.3: Defining an Infinite Radiation Boundary
nsel,s,ext ! select exterior node on selected elements
sf,all,inf ! infinite radiation boundary

The absorption coefficient is often used to measure the absorption of a surface in acoustic applications.
The surface impedance with real value can deviate from the defined absorption coefficient, as shown
in Table 7.2: Surface Impedance Boundary Conditions (p. 24). The absorption coefficient of the surface
can be applied to nodes of the finite element model via the SF,Nlist,ATTN,VALUE command:
Example 7.4: Defining Boundary Absorption Coefficient
nsel,s,ext
sf,all,attn,0.5

! select exterior node on selected elements

! boundary absorption coefficient

A more flexible complex surface impedance represents the specific ratio between pressure and normal
particle velocity on the surface. Surface impedance can be applied to nodes on the finite element
model via the SF,Nlist,IMPD,VALUE,VALUE2 command:
Example 7.5: Applying the Impedance BC in an Acoustic Radiation or Scattering Analysis
Apply the impedance boundary condition to the exterior surface of the model in an acoustic radiation
or scattering analysis.

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Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC)

Apply the impedance boundary condition to the inlet and outlet surface for the transparent port in an
acoustic propagating analysis.
For example, in a transmission loss analysis of a muffler, you might define the following:
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,impd,z01
sf,all,shld,vn
sf,all,port,10
nsel,s,loc,l
sf,all,impd,z02

!
!
!
!
!
!

select nodes on inlet

impedance on inlet
normal velocity on inlet
transparent port
select nodes on outlet
impedance on outlet

If a complex value is applied to a surface (SF,Nlist,IMPD,VALUE,VALUE2) in an acoustic modal analysis, a negative conductance of admittance is input as VALUE and the quotient of susceptance to the
angular frequency is input as VALUE2.
Do not use the SF,Nlist,IMPD command to define the radiation boundary (SF,Nlist,INF) if the pure
scattered formulation is selected (ASOL,SC) unless the impedance value is different from the media
characteristic impedance Z0 = 0C0.

7.1.4. Free Surface (Sloshing Effect)

The free surface (sloshing effect) is taken into account by flagging the plane as a free surface
(SF,Nlist,FREE) and defining gravitational acceleration (ACEL).
The free surface must be aligned with the coordinate plane in the global Cartesian coordinate system.
The gravitational acceleration input is always positive regardless of how the model is set up.
Example 7.6: Defining the Sloshing Effect
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,free
alls
acel,,,9.85

! select the nodes on the free surface

! flag the nodes on free surface
! gravity acceleration in z-direction

For more information, see Acoustic Fluid-Structural Interaction (FSI) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

7.2. Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC)

An exterior acoustics problem typically involves an infinite, homogenous, inviscid fluid. The pressure
wave must satisfy the Sommerfeld radiation condition. A typical approach to such a problem involves
truncating the unbounded domain by introducing a second-order absorbing element (FLUID130 or
FLUID129) on the boundary a at some distance from the structure.
For a 3-D acoustic analysis, the absorbing boundary must be a spherical enclosure centered at the origin
(x0,y0,z0) with radius ra.
For a 2-D acoustic analysis, the absorbing boundary must be a circle centered at the origin (x0,y0,0) with
radius Ra.
Absorbing elements have a mesh conforming to the underlying elements. The 4-node element FLUID130
(KEYOPT(1) = 0) is applied to the top of the 8-node element FLUID30. The 8-node element FLUID130
(KEYOPT(1) = 2) is applied to the top of the 20-node element FLUID220 or the 10-node element FLUID221.
The 2-node element FLUID129 is connected to the 4-node element FLUID29.
Generate the absorbing elements as follows:
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Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis

1. Mesh the model enclosed by a spherical surface with FLUID30, FLUID220, or FLUID221 elements.
2. Select the underlying nodes and elements on the spherical boundary surface.
3. Generate a surface absorbing element with the ESURF command.
Example 7.7: Generating an Absorbing Element
et,1,220,,1
et,2,130,2
r,1,1e-6
r,2,DIM_DISTANCE
mp,sonc,1,1500
mp,dens,1,1000
mpcopy,,1,2

! FLUID220
! second-order FLUID130

sphere,,DIM_DISTANCE,0,90
vsbw,all
vsel,s,loc,z,0,-DIM_DISTANCE
vdele,all,,,1
allsel,all
esize,DIM_ESIZE
vmesh,all
csys,2
asel,s,loc,x,DIM_DISTANCE
csys,0
nsla,s,1
type,2
real,2
mat,2
esurf
allsel,all

!
!
!
!
!
!

radius of sphere
sound speed
density
copy material 1 to 2
create 1/8 sphere
sphere

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

mesh sphere with FLUID220

activate spherical coordinate
select area on the sphere
activate Cartesian coordinate
nodes attaching to area
create surface mesh
FLUID130
real constant 2
material 2
generate surface element

Absorbing elements accommodate the symmetry of the model. If the radiated acoustic field has no
significant effect on the excitation source entity, the spherical absorbing boundary can locally enclose
the open space near the radiation outlet, as shown in this figure:
Figure 7.1: Spherical ABC for Symmetry and Near the Radiation Outlet

FLUID130 and FLUID129 can be used for modal, harmonic, and transient analyses.
For more information, see Absorbing Boundary Condition (ABC) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

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Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs)

7.3. Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs)

An absorbing boundary condition (ABC) absorbs the outgoing pressure wave so that there are no reflections back into the FEA computational domain. Perfectly matched layers (PMLs) are the layers of
pressure waves absorbing elements designed for the mesh truncation of an open FEA domain in a
harmonic analysis.
PML is an artificial anisotropic material. It is transparent and heavily lossy to incoming pressure waves.
PML can reduce the size of the computational domain significantly with very small numerical reflections.
A PML region is backed by a soft-sound boundary condition (p = 0).
If the pressure wave should be absorbed in only one direction, such as in a traditional tube, construct
a 1-D PML region in the global Cartesian coordinate system or a local Cartesian coordinate system, as
shown in this figure:
Figure 7.2: 1-D Multiple PMLs for Pipes

To define PML elements, issue the ET command. Set KEYOPT(4) = 1 for FLUID30, FLUID220, or FLUID221
prior to meshing the PML region. Use any element shape to mesh the PML block.
More than one 1-D PML regions can exist in a model. The element coordinate system (ESYS) uniquely
identifies each PML region. Define a Cartesian coordinate system (LOCAL) with one axis in the wavepropagating direction, then assign the coordinate system to the elements in the PML region (VATT or
ESYS prior to meshing, or EMODIF after meshing).
Example 7.8: Defining PML Elements in a Local Coordinate System
et,11,200,6
et,1,30,,1
et,2,30,,1,,1

local,11,0,2,3,4,50,-60,135
wpcsys,,11
rect,0,l,-d/2,d/2
rect,l,l+dpml,-d/2,d/2
aglue,all
esize,h
type,11
amesh,all
asel,all
asel,u,,,3
esla
type,1
mat,1
esize,,2
vext,all,,,0,0,d,
esys,11
asel,s,,,3
type,2,

! mesh element
! normal fluid30
! pml fluid30
! local coordinate
! area in local cs
! area in local cs

! mesh area with mesh200

! normal element

! 3d mesh with normal element

! activate local element coordinate
! pml element

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27

Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis

mat,1
esize,,2
vext,all,,,0,0,d,

nsel,s,loc,x,l+dpml
d,all,pres,0.

! 3d mesh with pml element in esys 11

! nodes backed to pml
! zero pressure on boundary

A 3-D PML region consists of layers of elements extending from the interior volume towards the open
domain, as shown in this figure:
Figure 7.3: PML Enclosure

Construct a block about the origin in the global Cartesian coordinate system or a local Cartesian coordinate system. Align the edges of the 3-D PML region with the axes of the Cartesian coordinate system.
To optimize the absorbing efficiency of the PML, construct the PML regions and apply the following
parameters carefully:
Thickness of the PML region
Number of PML elements
Attenuation parameters
Number of buffer elements between the PML region and objects or discontinuities
The attenuation from the PML interface to the PML exterior surface is a parabolic distribution that
minimizes numerical reflections from the PML elements, as shown in this figure:

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Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs)

Figure 7.4: Attenuation Distribution

The numerical reflection is caused by the discretization of a continuous distribution of material from
element to element. To obtain satisfactory numerical accuracy, use at least two layers of PML elements.
The PML thickness may need to be greater than 1/10 of a wavelength.
Because a PML region acts as an infinite open domain, any boundary conditions and material properties
must be carried over to the PML region. Material properties such as mass density and sound speed in
the PML region must be identical to those of the adjacent interior region.
A sound-soft Dirichlet boundary with p = 0 must back all exterior surfaces of the PML region, except
for symmetric surfaces with the rigid wall boundary condition. To specify a sound-soft boundary condition
on the outer surfaces of the PML region, use the D command for a finite element model. The soundsoft or sound-hard boundary conditions can be applied on symmetric surfaces of a PML region.
Include at least two buffer elements between the PML region and a discontinuity or object in the domain,
as shown in this figure:
Figure 7.5: Buffer Elements

The PML can then absorb the outgoing wave effectively and minimize numerical reflections.
Because PML is an artificial anisotropic material, excitation sources are prohibited in the PML region.
The attenuation of the pressure wave in a PML region can be controlled. If desired, specify the normal
reflection coefficient (harmonic) for propagating waves as follows:
PMLOPT,ESYS,Lab,Xminus,Xplus,Yminus,Yplus,Zminus,Zplus
The direction designations are Xminus, Yminus, Zminus, Xplus, Yplus, and Zplus. The minus and
plus refer to the negative and positive directions along the Cartesian coordinate axes, respectively.
If the propagating wave is absorbed in only one direction, define a 1-D PML region (Lab = ONE). In this
case, only the Xminus argument is necessary.
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Applying Boundary Conditions in an Acoustic Analysis

For a 3-D PML region, a different normal reflection coefficient can be defined for each direction (Xminus,
Yminus, Zminus, Xplus, Yplus, Zplus). Normal reflection coefficients default to 10-3 (-60 dB) for
a harmonic analysis. Normal reflection coefficients should be less than 1.0. If only a very few PML layers
are used (for example, two or three), specifying a very small normal reflection coefficient (such as -100
dB) may lead to significant numerical reflection.
Example 7.9: Defining 3-D PML Parameters
The following example input defines 3-D PML parameters as illustrated in Figure 7.3: PML Enclosure (p. 28):
pmlxm=0
pmlxp=-40
pmlym=0
pmlyp=-40
pmlzm=-60
pmlzp=-60
pmlopt,0,three,pmlxm,pmlym,pmlzm,pmlxp,pmlyp,pmlzp

!
!
!
!
!
!
!

no pml
-40 dB
no pml
-40 dB
-60 dB
-60 dB
define

in x direction
in +x direction
in y direction
in +y direction
in z direction
in +z direction
3-d pml

Repeat the PMLOPT command for additional PML regions. The PML may have a different number of
elements in each direction.
The number of PML layers determines the absorbing efficiency of the PML region. An excessive number
of PML elements significantly increases computational requirements. The number of PML layers (n) for
acceptable numerical accuracy is determined by the following command:
PMLSIZE,FREQB,FREQE,DMIN,DMAX,THICK,ANGLE
The following figure shows the relationship between DMIN, DMAX, and THICK:
Figure 7.6: Distance Between Source/Objects and PML Region

If n < 2, the number of layers is set to 2 to reduce numerical reflection. If n > 20, the number of layers
is set to 20 to avoid an excessive number of PML elements.
Before meshing the model, issue the PMLSIZE command. If the thickness of the PML region is known,
the command specifies an element edge length. If the thickness of the PML region is unknown, it specifies
the number of layers (n). For further information, see the PMLOPT and PMLSIZE commands in the
Command Reference, and Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
PML is used only in acoustic harmonic analysis.
PML may be necessary in cases where:

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Perfectly Matched Layers (PMLs)

The impedance is unknown on exterior surfaces of the model, such as complex scatters.
Multiple propagating modes on the outlet surface are excited by discontinuities in the structure so that
the defined impedance may not absorb all outgoing propagating modes.
Using the spherical second-order ABC leads to numerous elements or lesser accuracy.
High absorbing rate is required for greater numerical accuracy.
In most acoustic radiation and scattering applications, the open domain is fully enclosed by 3-D PML,
as shown in Figure 7.3: PML Enclosure (p. 28). If the radiated acoustic field has no significant effect on
the excitation source entity, however, the 3-D PML can be used to locally enclose the open space near
the radiation outlet, as shown in this figure:
Figure 7.7: PML Near the Radiation Outlet

It is necessary to separate the PML region and sound-propagating region with the rigid wall, as the
PML connects only to the infinity.
For more information, see Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

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31

32

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Chapter 8: Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic

Analysis
The following topics are available:
8.1. Applying Acoustic Excitation Sources
8.2. Applying Acoustic Loads

8.1. Applying Acoustic Excitation Sources

Sound excitation sources are fundamental to an acoustic analysis. You can introduce sound excitation
sources via:
Specified pressure at nodes (D)
Normal velocity (harmonic analysis) or acceleration (transient analysis) on the exterior surface of the domain
(SF)
Arbitrary velocity (harmonic analysis) or acceleration (transient analysis) on the exterior surface of the
domain (BF)
Analytic incident wave sources (AWAVE)
Mass source (harmonic analysis) or mass source rate (transient analysis) at nodes, along lines, on surfaces,
or in volumes (BF)
The following table shows all excitation sources available for acoustic analysis:
Table 8.1: Acoustic Excitation Sources
Excitation Sources
Pressure

FE Model Entities
Nodes

Outward normal velocity (acceleration) Nodes

Arbitrary nodal velocity (acceleration)

Nodes or elements

Analytic incident wave sources

Not applicable

Mass sources

Nodes or elements

Excitation sources can be applied on the finite element model entities.

The following detailed descriptions of the available excitations are available:
8.1.1. Pressure Excitation
8.1.2. Outward Normal Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation
8.1.3. Arbitrary Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation
8.1.4. Analytic Incident Wave Sources
8.1.5. Mass Source (Mass Source Rate)
For general information about applying loads, see Loading in the Basic Analysis Guide.
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Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis

8.1.1. Pressure Excitation

Pressure excitation (D,Node,PRES) behaves as a Dirichlet pressure boundary (Pressure Boundary (p. 23)).
When applying pressure excitation, the pressure is enforced to a given value. Sound pressure reflected
by other objects back to the excitation point cannot be taken into account.
Pressure excitation can be used only under conditions where the effect of reflected sound pressure is
not required.

8.1.2. Outward Normal Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation

Outward normal velocity or acceleration can be applied to the exterior surface of the model
(SF,Nlist,SHLD).
Apply a minus sign of the outward normal velocity if an inward normal velocity is required.
For a harmonic analysis, a complex normal velocity to the surface is defined by the amplitude and phase
angle. The program solves for the pressure on the normal velocity excitation surface.
If the reflected sound pressure waves passing through the normal velocity excitation surface are taken
into account, apply the impedance boundary condition to the excitation surface so that the PML is not
backed to the excitation surface. In such a case, the normal velocity surface load is applied to the nonPML element surface with doubled values that are applied to the exterior surface of the model.
Normal velocity excitation exists either on the structural surface or on the transparent pressure wave
port on which the incident wave propagates into the acoustic domain and the reflected wave backs to
the infinity. To absorb the reflected wave on the transparent port, apply the impedance boundary to
the port surface (SF,Nlist,IMPD or SF,Nlist,INF) along with the velocity excitation. To distinguish
the transparent wave port from the structural surface, specify the transparent port surface
(SF,Nlist,PORT).
The following command applies outward normal velocity or acceleration to the nodes of the FE model:
SF,Nlist,SHLD,Value,Value2
Example 8.1: Defining the Normal Velocity and Impedance BC on a Transparent Wave Port
nsel,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,vn,ang
sf,all,impd,z0
sf,all,port,1

!
!
!
!

select nodes at z = 0
complex normal velocity
impedance boundary
transparent port

Example 8.2: Defining the Normal Velocity and Impedance BC on a Structural Surface
nsel,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,vn,ang
sf,all,impd,z0

! select nodes at z = 0
! complex normal velocity
! impedance boundary

Example 8.3: Defining the Frequency Dependency of the Normal Velocity of Acceleration
Use tables (*DIM) in the SF command to define the frequency dependency of the normal velocity of
acceleration, as shown:
*dim,vn,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,ang,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
vn(1,0,1)=FreqB
vn(2,0,1)=FreqE
vn(1,1,1)=vn1

34

!
!
!
!
!

normal velocity table

angle table
beginning frequency
ending frequency
normal velocity at FreqB

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Applying Acoustic Excitation Sources

vn(2,1,1)=vn2
ang(1,1,1)=ang1
ang(2,1,1)=ang2
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,%vn%,%ang%

!
!
!
!
!

normal velocity at FreqE

phase angle at FreqB
phase angle at FreqE
select nodes at z = 0
tabular complex vn

8.1.3. Arbitrary Velocity (Acceleration) Excitation

An arbitrary velocity or acceleration can be applied to the nodes on the exterior surface of the model
(BF,Node,VELO).
The arbitrary velocities are projected to the outward normal direction on the excitation surface after
interpolation during an acoustic solution. For a harmonic analysis, a complex velocity is defined by the
amplitudes and phase angles of the components.
The arbitrary velocity or acceleration can be defined in a local Cartesian coordinate system (LOCAL),
then assigned to the elements (VATT or ESYS prior to meshing or EMODIF after meshing). The program
solves for pressure on the velocity excitation surface. If the reflected sound pressure waves that are
passing through the velocity excitation surface are simulated, apply the impedance boundary condition
to the excitation surface. The arbitrary velocity excitation exists either on the structural surface or on
the transparent pressure wave port.
The following command applies arbitrary velocity to the nodes of the FE model:
BF,Node,VELO,Vx,Vy,Vz,AngX,AngY,AngZ
Example 8.4: Defining the Arbitrary Velocity and Impedance BC on a Transparent Wave Port
et,1,220,,1
local,11
esys,11

nsel,loc,z,0
bf,all,velo,vx,vy,vz,angx,angy,angz
sf,all,impd,z01
sf,all,port,1

! uncoupled acoustic element

! local coordinate
! use local as element esys
!
!
!
!

select nodes at z = 0
complex arbitrary velocity
impedance boundary
transparent port

Example 8.5: Defining the Frequency Dependency of the Arbitrary Velocity or Acceleration
Use tables (*DIM) in the BF command to define the frequency dependency of the arbitrary velocity or
acceleration, as shown:
*dim,vx,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,vy,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,vz,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,ax,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,ay,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
*dim,az,TABLE,2,1,1,FREQ
vx(1,0,1)=FreqB
vx(2,0,1)=FreqE
vx(1,1,1)=vx1
vx(2,1,1)=vx2
vy(1,1,1)=vy1
vy(2,1,1)=vy2
vz(1,1,1)=vz1
vz(2,1,1)=vy2
ax(1,1,1)=vx1
ax(2,1,1)=vx2
ay(1,1,1)=vy1
ay(2,1,1)=vy2
az(1,1,1)=vz1
az(2,1,1)=vy2
nsel,s,loc,z,0
bf,all,velo,%vx%,%vy%,%vz%,%ax%,%ay%,%az%

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

vx table
vy table
vz table
angle x table
angle y table
angle z table
beginning frequency
ending frequency
vx at FreqB
vx at FreqE
vy at FreqB
vy at FreqE
vz at FreqB
vz at FreqE
angle x at FreqB
angle x at FreqE
angle y at FreqB
angle y at FreqE
angle z at FreqB
angle z at FreqE
select nodes at z = 0
complex velocity table

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Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis

8.1.4. Analytic Incident Wave Sources

Acoustic analyses often use wave sources with analytic functions in harmonic analysis. The following
table shows all available analytic wave sources for acoustic analyses:
Table 8.2: Acoustic Analytic Incident Wave Sources
Wave Sources

Comments

Planar wave

Plane wave with the incident and in the global spherical

coordinate system from infinity

Monopole or pulsating sphere

Spherical wave from the origin (xs,ys,zs)

Dipole

Consists of two monopoles or pulsating spheres with opposite signs and a small separation

Back enclosed loudspeaker

Loudspeaker with back enclosure acting as a monopole

Bare loudspeaker

Loudspeaker without back enclosure acting as a dipole

To define various incident wave sources, issue the AWAVE command

Specify the integer number (WaveNum) or an acoustic incident wave inside or outside of the model.
Valid values are 1 through 20. One or more wave types can be selected. The amplitude of the pressure
or normal velocity is used for the excitation.
A planar wave can be defined in terms of the amplitude and the spatial incident angles in the global
spherical coordinate system, as shown in this figure:
Figure 8.1: Spherical Coordinates

Because the incident planar wave is approximated by the far-field wave front of a source far from the
receiver, both the initial phase angle and the source original are ignored.
Specify the analytic incident wave sources and select either the total pressure field or the scattered
field solver in an acoustic scattering analysis.
If the scattered parameter is required and the scattered pressure field is much smaller than the incident
pressure field, use the scattered pressure field solver (ASOL,SCAT) to avoid numerical errors. Control
the output result as needed for either the total or scattered nodal pressure in the model (ASCRES).

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Applying Acoustic Excitation Sources

Specify incident wave sources as external sources (Opt2 = EXT on the AWAVE command) if a scattering
analysis is needed.
When analytic incident wave sources are used inside the model (Opt2 = INT on the AWAVE command),
only the scattered pressure field solver is activated, regardless of whether the ASOL,SCAT command is
issued.
The source origin must be located inside the model. The plane wave incident source cannot be used
inside the model.
The uniform normal velocity on the cross section can be used to launch the plane wave. When analytic
incident wave sources are located inside the model, the nodal total pressure is always output, even
though the scattered field solver is used.
Example 8.6: Defining an Internal Pulsating Sphere with Normal Velocity
block,0,xs,0,ys,0,zs
! geometry of model

awave,1,mono,velo,int,v0,ang,xs/2,ys/2,zs/2 ! incident wave inside of model

Example 8.7: Defining an External Dipole with Pressure

block,0,xs,0,ys,0,zs
! geometry of model

awave,1,dipole,pres,ext,p0,ang,-xs,-ys,-zs ! incident wave outside of model

It is not necessary to assign the internal analytic incident wave sources to the FE nodes. It is convenient
to use the internal analytic incident wave sources rather than meshing the wave source structure, such
as a pulsating sphere.
For more information, see Pure Scattered Pressure Formulation in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

8.1.5. Mass Source (Mass Source Rate)

To excite sound waves in an acoustic model, use a mass source (harmonic analysis) or mass source rate
(transient analysis).
The mass source is input by defining up to one scalar quantity (Lab = JS on the BF and related BFx
commands) and a phase angle. The mass source is specified at nodes (BF) or transferred to nodes from
a solid model entity (BFA, BFL, or BFK). The mass source can also be specified on elements (BFE) or
transferred to elements from a solid model volume (BFV).
To view the mass source, issue the /PBC,JS,,2 command.
To define a volume mass source, issue one of the following commands:
BF,BFV,BFE
For a surface mass source, specify the mass source on at least three nodes on an element face. The
surface current source must coincide with the elements faces. Define a mass source surface source via
one of the following commands:
BF, BFA
For a line mass source, specify the mass source at two nodes connected by an element edge. The line
current source must coincide with the element edges. To define a line mass source, issue one of the
following commands:
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Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis

BF,BFL
A point mass source must be at the element nodes. You can define a point mass source using one of
the following commands:
BF, BFK
In general, a mass source launches the pressure wave in all directions. For a propagating or resonant
system, a mass source can be used to excite the propagating modes or resonant modes of the structure.
Only proper modes can exist in the structure. To reduce the parasitic modes, choose the distribution
of the mass source based on the pressure distribution of the excited mode.
When a mass source is applied to an exterior surface, the excited pressure is determined by p = qsc0.
On an exterior or interior transparent port, the excited pressure is given by p = qsc0 / 2.
Example 8.8: Defining a Surface Mass Source
nsel,s,loc,z,0
! select nodes at z = 0
bf,all,js,ms,,,ang ! complex mass source

For more information, see Mass Source in the Wave Equation in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

8.2. Applying Acoustic Loads

The following table shows all available loads for an acoustic analysis:
Table 8.3: Acoustic Loads
Loads

FE Model Entities

Transfer admittance matrix

Nodes

Impedance sheet

Nodes

Equivalent surface source

Nodes

Temperature

Nodes or elements

Static pressure

Nodes

Surface port

Nodes

The loads can be applied on FE model entities.

Use of temperature and static pressure body load are discussed in Non-Uniform Ideal Gas Material (p. 16).
The following related topics are available:
8.2.1.Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix
8.2.2. Impedance Sheet
8.2.3. Equivalent Surface Source
8.2.4. Surface Port

8.2.1. Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix

To avoid meshing a complicated perforated structure, introduce a 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix to
trim the complex perforated structures. Define the element material and name it as the trim element
(TB,PERF,,,,YMAT). Transfer admittance matrices are available only in harmonic acoustic analyses.

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Applying Acoustic Loads

The coupled trim element connects with both the structural element and uncoupled acoustic element.
The uncoupled trim element connects with the uncoupled acoustic elements, as shown in the following
figure:
Figure 8.2: Trim Element with Transfer Admittance Matrix

If the trim elements connect only to the uncoupled acoustic element, define the port numbers of the
2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix with positive integers on a pair of the opposite faces of the element
(SF,Nlist,PORT). The smaller port number corresponds to port 1 of the 2 x 2 transfer admittance
matrix and the greater port number corresponds to port 2.
If one face of the coupled trim element is defined as the FSI interface (SF,Nlist,FSI), it is assigned to
port 1 of the transfer admittance matrix, while its opposite face connecting with the acoustic element
should be defined by a port number (SF,Nlist,PORT), corresponding to port 2 of the transfer admittance
matrix.
The following table shows the available transfer admittance matrix models:
Table 8.4: Transfer Admittance Matrix Models of Perforated Structures:TB,PERF,,,,TBOPT
TBOPT

Model

Input Parameters

YMAT

General transfer admittance

matrix

2 x 2 complex admittance matrix: Y11,Y12,Y21,Y22

HGYM

Hexagonal grid plate

Radius of hole, grid period, thickness, density, dynamic

viscosity, ratio of inner and outer radius for cylindrical
structure

SGYM

Square grid plate

Radius of hole, grid period, thickness, density, dynamic

viscosity, ratio of inner and outer radius for cylindrical
structure

The trim element is available only for hexahedral and prism elements.
In a hexahedral element, only a pair of opposite element faces can be defined as the ports. In a prism
element, only two triangular element faces are used for the ports.

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Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis

A pair of ports of the 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix must be defined in the same element. No limitation
exists on the trim element mesh size between two ports.
The 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix can be symmetric or asymmetric. The program selects the correct
solver for the specific transfer admittance matrix.
For a multi-layer perforated structure, if the individual transfer admittance matrix of each layer is known,
convert the transfer admittance matrices to ABCD matrices. Multiply all ABCD matrices together. Convert
the final ABCD matrix into the 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix for the input.
Specify a frequency-dependent trim element with the general transfer admittance matrix as follows:
TB,PERF,,,,YAMT
TBFIELD,FREQ,Value
TBDATA,1,Re(Y11),Im(Y11),Re(Y12),Im(Y12),Re(Y21),Im(Y21)
TBDATA,7,Re(Y22),Im(Y22),Re(),Im(),Re(),Im()
Two specified perforated structures with holes are present on the plate.
Specify a perforated structure with a square (TBOPT = SGYM) or hexagonal (TBOPT = HGYM) grid as
follows:
TB,PERF,,,,TBOPT
TBFIELD,FREQ,Value
TBDATA,rad,period,thick,rho,visc,ratio
The program calculates the transfer admittance matrix during the solution in terms of the input parameters.
Example 8.9: Defining Uncoupled Trim Elements
tb,perf,2,,,YMAT
tbdata,1,y11r,y11i,y12r,y12i,y21r,y21i
tbdata,7,y22r,y22i
tblist,perf,2

esel,s,mat,,2
nsle,s
nsel,s,loc,z,z1
sf,all,port,1
nsel,s,loc,z,z2
sf,all,port,2

nsel,s,loc,z,z3
nsel,a,loc,z,0
sf,all,impd,z0
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,-vn,

! define transfer admittance matrix

! complex 2 by 2 matrix
! list admittance matrix
!
!
!
!
!
!

element with YMAT

nodes in YMAT elements
select nodes at z = z1
port 1
select nodes at z = z2
port 2

! select nodes at z = z3 and 0

! impedance boundary
! nodes at z = 0
! normal velocity

Example 8.10: Defining Coupled Trim Elements with FSI

et,1,186
et,2,220,,0

tb,perf,2,,,YMAT
tbdata,1,y11r,y11i,y12r,y12i,y21r,y21i
tbdata,7,y22r,y22i
tblist,perf,2

esel,s,mat,,2
nsle,s
nsel,s,loc,z,z1

40

! structural element
! coupled acoustic element
! define transfer admittance matrix
! complex 2 by 2 matrix
! list admittance matrix
! element with YMAT
! nodes in YMAT elements
! select nodes at z = z1

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Applying Acoustic Loads

sf,all,port,1
nsel,s,loc,z,z2
sf,all,fsi

! port 1
! select nodes at z = z2
! fsi interface

Example 8.11: Defining Perforated Plates

et,1,220,,1
tb,perf,2,,,SGYM
tbdata,1,rad,period,thick,rho,visc,ratio

type,1
mat,2
vmesh,all

! uncoupled acoustic element

! define square grid plate
! input parameters
! uncoupled fluid220
! perforated structure material
! mesh volume

For more information, see Transfer Admittance Matrix in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

8.2.2. Impedance Sheet

The impedance sheet is a specification of the 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix with continuous pressure
and discontinuous normal velocity across the impedance sheet (for example, Y11=0.5Y, Y22=-0.5Y,
Y12=Y21).
If your simulation has nearly continuous pressure and the full 2 x 2 transfer admittance matrix is unknown,
see Impedance Sheet Approximation in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference for a calculation of sheet
impedance.
No element shape limitation exists on the impedance sheet.
Apply the impedance sheet to the interior surface of the model.
Define an impedance sheet via one of the following commands:
BF,Node,IMPD,Rs,Xs
BFA,Node,IMPD,Rs,Xs
Example 8.12: Defining the Impedance Sheet
nsel,s,loc,z,0
bf,all,impd,rs,xs

! nodes at z = 0
! complex impedance sheet

8.2.3. Equivalent Surface Source

The near and far fields beyond the FEA domain are of importance in acoustic analysis. Many design
parameters (for example, the sound pressure level, radiated sound power, directivity or target strength)
are based on the far-field values. The sound pressure field beyond the FEA domain can be calculated
using the surface equivalence principle: the sound pressure field exterior to a given surface can be exactly
represented by an equivalent source placed on that surface and allowed to radiate into the region external to that surface.
The equivalent source surface is available only for the near- and far-field parameters in a harmonic
analysis. .
For problems requiring near- and far-field computations, first define an equivalent source surface in the
preprocessor. The surface must enclose the radiator or scatter, except for symmetry planes. Equivalent
sources are calculated and stored on the surface, enabling quick calculation of near- and far-field information in the postprocessor.

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Applying Excitation Sources and Loads in an Acoustic Analysis

For radiation and scattering problems, use an absorbing boundary condition (ABC).
For radiation problems, use perfectly matched layers (PML), absorbing elements (FLUID130), or far-field
radiation boundary (INF).
For scattering problems, use either PML or far-field radiation boundary (INF).
The equivalent source surface may be between the radiator or scatter and the PML region. Define an
equivalent source surface using a surface boundary load with the flag MXWF. When applying a MXWF
surface load, be sure to define an equivalent source surface. If no equivalent source surfaces are defined,
the program flags the PML interface, absorbing element surface, or radiation boundary as the equivalent
source surface. Do not flag any surface on a symmetry plane (for example, the Y-Z and X-Z planes in
Figure 7.3: PML Enclosure (p. 28)).

8.2.3.1. Flagging an Equivalent Source Surface

Flag an equivalent source surface as follows:
1. Select the elements interior to the equivalent source surface (ESEL).
2. Select all the nodes of these elements (NSLE,S).
3. Reselect just the exterior nodes to work with only the surface nodes (NSEL,R,EXT).
4. Apply the surface flag (SF,ALL,MXWF).
Following is an alternate method for flagging an equivalent source surface:
1. Select the nodes interior to the equivalent source surface (NSEL).
2. Select the elements attached to the selected nodes, only if all of its nodes are in the selected nodal set
(ESLN,S,1,ALL).
3. Select the nodes on the MXWF surface (NSEL).
4. Apply the surface flag (SF,ALL,MXWF).
Do not apply the surface flag via the SFA command, which transfers the surface flag to adjacent elements
on either side of the equivalent source surface and can lead to erroneous results.
For more information, see Acoustic Output Quantities in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference

8.2.4. Surface Port

To indicate the ports of a transfer admittance matrix, issue the SF,Nlist,PORT command. If the sound
power is required after the solution, apply the port number to the inlet and outlet before the solution.
To also define the impedance, issue the SF,Nlist,IMPD command.
Define a surface port via the following command:
SF,Nlist,PORT,PortNum

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Applying Acoustic Loads

Example 8.13: Defining a Surface Port
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,port,1

! nodes at z = 0
! port 1

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Chapter 9: Accounting for Acoustic Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI)

An acoustic structural interaction solution can be obtained with either a strong coupled matrix or a
load transfer.
For a strong coupled solution, both structure and acoustic fluid interact with each other via coupling
boundary conditions. The displacement and pressure degrees of freedom are solved simultaneously in
the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) model.
For a one-way load transfer coupling, only the structural effect on the acoustic fluid is taken into account,
and the structural results are used as the excitation source during the sequential acoustic solution.
To specify the FSI interface before solution, issue the SF,Nlist,FSIN command:
The FSI interface must be defined on the nodes belonging to the coupled acoustic elements (KEYOPT(2)
= 0) rather than on the nodes of the structural elements.
Example 9.1: Defining the FSI Interface
et,1,220,,0

esel,s,type,,1
nsel,s,ext
sf,all,fsin

! coupled acoustic element

! select acoustic element
! nodes on the exterior surface
! FSI interface

The unsymmetric matrix equation is raised by the coupled FSI problem.

For more information, see Acoustic Fluid-Structural Interaction (FSI) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

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Chapter 10: Solving an Acoustic Analysis

The solution phase of an acoustic analysis is initiated according to standard convention. Modal, harmonic,
and transient acoustic analyses are supported.
The following topics concerning the acoustic analysis solution are available:
10.1. Acoustic Analysis Solution Settings
10.2. Starting and Finishing the Solution

10.1. Acoustic Analysis Solution Settings

The following topics related to applying settings for an acoustic analysis solution are available:
10.1.1. Modal Analysis Settings
10.1.2. Harmonic Analysis Settings
10.1.3.Transient Analysis Settings

10.1.1. Modal Analysis Settings

To specify the modal analysis type, issue the ANTYPE,MODAL command.
The eigenvalue solution can include damping effects from the impedance boundary (SF,Nlist,IMPD),
radiation boundary (SF,Nlist,INF), or absorbing element (FLUID130).
The sloshing effect can be modeled (SF,Nlist,FREE and ACEL commands) in an acoustic modal analysis.
Excitation sources are ignored.
To specify solver options for the modal analysis, issue the MODOPTcommand. Following are the eigen
equations and solvers available in an acoustic modal analysis.
Table 10.1: Acoustic Eigen Equations and Solvers
Eigen Matrices

Damping

FSI
Coupling

MODOPT,Method
Option

KEYOPT(1)

KEYOPT(2)

Unsymmetric

NO

YES

UNSYM

Symmetric

NO

YES

LANB,SUBSP

Unsymmetric

YES

YES

DAMP

Symmetric

YES

YES

DAMP

Symmetric

NO

NO

LANB,SUBSP

Symmetric

YES

NO

DAMP

Specifying a proper frequency range results in efficient and accurate eigenvalue calculations. Input a
lower-end frequency just below the anticipated frequency (FREQB on the MODOPT command), then
specify an upper-end frequency (FREQE). Specify NMODE to request the number of modes to extract.
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Solving an Acoustic Analysis

For better convergence, activate the scaling key Scalekey (although doing so does not always improve
calculation efficiency and accuracy).
To enable modal solution viewing, and to perform other postprocessing options, specify the number
of modes to expand (for example, calculate and write the element solution to the results file). Expanding
the modes is required if you intend to postprocess the element data. To specify the number of modes
to expand, issue the MXPAND command (valid only within the first load step).
Select the symmetric matrix equation for the coupled problem in the preprocessor (/PREP7) via the ET
or KEYOPT command.
Example 10.1: Defining the Symmetric Matrix Equation for a Coupled Problem
et,1,220,1
et,2,220,1,1

10.1.2. Harmonic Analysis Settings

To specify the harmonic analysis type, issue the following command:
ANTYPE,HARMIC,Status,LDSTEP,SUBSTEP,Action
Two harmonic analysis methods are available:
10.1.2.1. Full Harmonic Analysis
10.1.2.2. Mode Superposition Harmonic Analysis
For more information, see Performing a Harmonic Analysis in the Structural Analysis Guide.

10.1.2.1. Full Harmonic Analysis

The following topics related to harmonic acoustic analysis settings are available:
10.1.2.1.1. Setting the Analysis Frequencies
10.1.2.1.2. Specifying the Analysis Solver
10.1.2.1.3. Selecting the Scattered Formulation for Harmonic Analysis

10.1.2.1.1. Setting the Analysis Frequencies

Set the frequency using the following command:
HARFRQ,FREQB,FREQE,--,LogOpt
To perform a frequency sweep, the frequency range on the HARFRQ command should be specified.
You can perform a harmonic analysis over an nth-octave band or general-frequency band with a logarithm
frequency span (the HARFRQ command with LogOpt).

=
The octave band is defined based on up 0

1
n

=
and low

, where:

f0 = central frequency of the octave band (f0 = 16, 31.5, 63, 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000, 16000
Hz for the specified 11 octave bands)
n = 1 (octave band), 2 (1/2 octave band), 3 (1/3 octave band), 6 (1/6 octave band), 12 (1/12 octave band),
and 24 (1/24 octave band)

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Acoustic Analysis Solution Settings

For more information, see Logarithm Frequency Spacing in a Harmonic Analysis in the Mechanical APDL
Theory Reference.
You cannot restart a harmonic analysis. If you want to apply a different set of harmonic loads, you must
perform a new analysis each time.
Specify harmonic analysis options using the following command:
HROPT,Method,MAXMODE,MINMODE,MCout,Damp

10.1.2.1.2. Specifying the Analysis Solver

The following solvers are available (EQSLV) for a full harmonic analysis:
Sparse direct (SPARSE) (default)
Quasi-Minimal Residual (QMR)
Incomplete Cholesky Conjugate Gradient (ICCG)
When selecting an iterative solver, use the QMR solver for symmetric linear equations and the ICCG
solver for unsymmetric matrices.
For a relatively small problem (50,000 degrees of freedom [DOFs] or less), the default sparse solver is
recommended.
For larger problems, try the QMR or ICCG solver. If the problem does not converge using either of those
solvers, use the sparse solver.
The sparse solver for an FE model having 1 million DOFs generally requires a minimum 2 GB RAM and
10-15 GB of disk space. For the number of DOFs per element, see Table 2.1: Acoustic Element Properties (p. 5).
Using the symmetric formulation in a harmonic analysis reduces computational requirements.
Select the symmetric matrix equation for the coupled problem in the preprocessor (/PREP7) using either
the ET or KEYOPT command.
Example 10.2: Defining the Unsymmetric Matrix Equation for a Coupled Problem
et,1,220,2
et,2,220,2,1

For more information, see Coupled Acoustic Fluid-Structural System with Symmetric Matrix Equation
for Full Harmonic Analysis in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

10.1.2.1.3. Selecting the Scattered Formulation for Harmonic Analysis

Both the total and scattered pressure formulation are available for analytic incident wave sources.
Activate the pure scattered formulation via the ASOL command.
To control the sound pressure field output for an acoustic scattering analysis, issue the ASCRES,Opt
command. You can output either the total sound pressure (Opt = TOTAL) or the scattered pressure
(Opt = SCAT).

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Solving an Acoustic Analysis

To calculate the far-field parameter, define the equivalent source surface that encloses the scatter
(SF,,MXWF).
Example 10.3: Specifying the Scattered Pressure Formulation
block,0,xs,0,ys,0,zs

awave,1,dipole,pres,ext,p0,ang,-xs,-ys,-zs
asol,scat,on
ascres,total

! geometry of model
! incident wave outside of model
! activate scattered formulation
! output total pressure

For more information, see Pure Scattered Pressure Formulation in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

10.1.2.2. Mode Superposition Harmonic Analysis

A complete description of the mode superposition analysis procedure is available in Mode-Superposition
Harmonic Analysis in the Structural Analysis Guide.
The following conditions apply specifically to acoustic analysis:
When the symmetric formulation is used, global system matrices are badly conditioned and the eigensolver
may not succeed in extracting all eigensolutions accurately. In this case, the unsymmetric (default) formulation along with the unsymmetric eigensolver (MODOPT,UNSYM with ModType = BOTH) is recommended.
The mode superposition method is well adapted for FSI analysis with structural loads and/or the following
fluid loads: F,,FLOW and SF,,FREE (sloshing).
The QR damped eigensolver method does not apply to FSI analysis because unsymmetrical coupling is
ignored with calculating the undamped modes used to obtain the damped modes.
The mode superposition method is not supported if damping is present. In particular, if acoustic damped
boundary conditions are specified (SF with Lab = IMPD, ATTN, INF, or BLI) or if fluid dynamics viscosity
(MP,VISC), perforated material (TB with Lab = PERF or AFDM), PML absorbing condition, or the absorbing
boundary elements (FLUID129 or FLUID130) are defined. Only modal damping (MDAMP or DMPRAT) is
supported.
The residual vector (RESVEC) and the enforced motion (MODCONT with EnforcedKey = ON) methods
are not supported by the unsymmetric eigensolver. As a consequence of the second limitation, non-zero
pressure and velocity (D with Lab = PRES, SF with Lab = SHLD, AWAVE, and BF with Lab = VELO) are
ignored.
Use a sufficient number of modes to obtain an accurate pressure solution. The upper frequency times
two for the modal base may be insufficient. In general, as the number of modes increases, the convergence
of the pressure solution is slower than that of the displacement solution, especially far from the resonance
frequencies.

10.1.3. Transient Analysis Settings

To specify the transient analysis type, issue the ANTYPE,TRANS command.
To obtain an acceptable solution in an acoustic transient analysis, the time increment t is determined
by t =1/(2fmax). Estimate the maximum operating frequency to determine the mesh size in the model.
(See Specifying Acoustic Analysis Region Attributes and Meshing (p. 21).)
The spatial distribution of the pressure field must also be taken into account for meshing. The mesh
should be fine enough to resolve the spatial variation of the pressure.

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Starting and Finishing the Solution

For example, if a sound dipole with a 1 m separation radiates sound in air at 20 Hz, setting the mesh
size as 1.7 m for low-order elements (10 elements/per wavelength) is unreasonable. If a 10-degree increment is used to discretize the circumference around the dipole, the minimum mesh should be 0.087
m. Both the maximum operating frequency and the pressure spatial variation must be taken into account.
An acoustic transient analysis performs a standard transient linear solution.
Example 10.4: Defining and Acoustic Transient Solution
num_timestep
frq_step
dim_waveleng
time_end
time_step
num_steps
num_elements
dim_esize

=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=

8
2000
1500/frq_step
dim_distance/1500*3
1/frq_step/num_timestep
time_end/time_step
8
dim_waveleng/num_elements

*dim,load_time,table,4,,,time
load_time(1,0)=0,1/frq_step,2/frq_step,time_end
load_time(1,1)=0,1,0,0

et,1,220,,1
! second-order fluid220
et,2,130,2
! second-order fluid130

/solu
antype,trans
trnopt,full
autots,off
time,time_end
deltim,time_step
outres,nsol,all
! time varying load
f,node(0,0,0),flow,%load_time%
solve
finish

10.2. Starting and Finishing the Solution

To enter the SOLUTION processor, issue the /SOLU command.
To initiate a single solution, issue the SOLVE command.
To exit the SOLUTION processor, issue the FINISH command.

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Chapter 11: Using Advanced Solution Techniques in an Acoustic

Analysis
The following advanced solution techniques are available for use in an acoustic analysis:
11.1. One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics
11.2. Linear Perturbation in an Acoustic Application

11.1. One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics

One-way coupling from structure to acoustics is more computationally efficient, while the acoustic effect
on the structure can be neglected. The structural results can be used as the acoustic excitation source
using the one-way coupling process.
A coupling coefficient is defined as:

c = 0 0
s
where:
0 = density of fluid
c0 = sound speed in the fluid
s = density of solid
T = effective thickness of the solid
= angular frequency
If c > 1, solve as a strong coupled acoustic-structural interaction problem. If c < 1, a one-way coupling
solution is more computationally efficient.
Specify a one-way coupling via the ASIFILE command.
Perform a one-way coupling analysis as follows:
For a conforming mesh on a one-way coupling interface:
1. Activate the structural model.
2. Flag a one-way coupling interface in the structural model via the SF,Nlist,FSIN command
(not SF,Nlist,FSI).
3. Prior to the solution, issue the ASIFILE,WRITE command so that structural results on the
one-way coupling interface are written to a file with extension .asi during the structural
solution.
4. Solve the structural model without the acoustic elements.
5. Switch to the acoustic model.

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Using Advanced Solution Techniques in an Acoustic Analysis

6. Prior to the solution, issue the ASIFILE,READ command so that the structural results on
the one-way coupling interface are read into the model during the acoustic solution.
7. Solve the acoustic model without the structural elements.
For a non-conforming mesh on a one-way coupling interface:
1. Solve the structural model without the acoustic elements.
2. Map the structural results on the one-way coupling interface of the structural model to
the acoustic model via Workbench External Data. For more information, see " Introduction
to the External Connection Add-In" in the External Connection Add-In.
3. Solve the acoustic model without the structural elements at the specified frequency.
Example 11.1: One-Way Coupling Process with a Conforming Mesh
et,1,186,,
et,2,220,,1

esel,s,type,,1
nsel,s,loc,x,0
sf,all,fsin,1
alls

esel,u,type,,2
asifile,write
fini
/solu
antype,harm
hropt,auto
kbc,1
harfrq,58,68
nsub,3
solve
finish
/prep7
alls
esel,u,type,,1
asifile,read
fini
/solu
antype,harm
hropt,auto
kbc,1
harfrq,58,68
nsub,3
solve
finish

! structural element
! uncoupled acoustic element
! select structural element
! nodes on interface in structural element
! flag one-way coupling interface

! unselect acoustic element

! write structural results to .asi file

! harmonic solution
! use program-selected solver
! frequency range
! steps over frequency range
! solve structural problem

! select everything
! unselect structural elements
! read structural results into model during solution

! harmonic solution
! choose solver by program
! frequency range
! steps over frequency range
! solve acoustic problem

11.2. Linear Perturbation in an Acoustic Application

For an acoustic-structural coupled solution (SF,Nlist,FSI), support is available for a nonlinear static
structural solution using a morphed mesh (MORPH) under the linear perturbation scheme (ANTYPE
and PERTURB).

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Linear Perturbation in an Acoustic Application

Following is the general process for solving an acoustic-structural interaction with nonlinear static
structural prestress:
Table 11.1: Acoustic Linear Perturbation Analysis Process
Step

Task

Comments

Build the model

The model contains either FSI interface or displacement

constraints.

Solve a nonlinear static structural

problem

Perform a standard nonlinear static structural solution

with the morphing operation.

Start a linear perturbation process

Restart the solution with the linear perturbation process.

Solve a modal or harmonic problem

Perform a modal or harmonic acoustic analysis.

The nonlinear static structural analysis can lead to deformation in the structure. The mesh in the
acoustic fluid is morphed based on the structural displacement solution. Activate mesh morphing during
the nonlinear static structural analysis (MORPH). Setting StrOpt = YES on the MORPH command allows
morphing in the model with structural elements.
Specify acoustic linear perturbation via one of the following commands:
ANTYPE,STATIC,RESTART,,,PERTURB
PERTURB
SOLVE,ELFORM
Example 11.2: Acoustic Linear Perturbation Process
et,1,220,,0
et,2,186,,

esel,s,type,,1
nsle,s
nsel,s,loc,x,0
sf,all,fsi

nsel,s,loc,x,0
f,all,fx,100
alls
fini
/solu
nlgeom,on
autots,off
nsubst,1
antype,static
morph,on,,,,,,,,,on
solve
finish
/solu
antype,static,restart,,,perturb
perturb,modal,,,allkeep
solve,elform

! coupled acoustic element

! structural element

modopt,unsym,4,1
mxpand,4
solve
finish

! options with unsymmetric modal solver

! expand modes after modal solution
! solve coupled modal problem

!
!
!
!

select acoustic elements

nodes on acoustic elements
nodes on fsi interface
flag fsi interface

! select nodes on structural elements

! apply force

!
!
!
!
!

large deformation on
auto step off
one sub-step
static solution
morphing with structural elements

! restart for linear perturbation

! modal solution for linear perturbation
! form new element matrices

For more information, see Linear Perturbation Analysis in the Structural Analysis Guide.

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Chapter 12: Postprocessing Acoustic Analysis Results

The following topics are available concerning postprocessing acoustic analysis results:
12.1. Helpful Postprocessing Commands
12.2. Postprocessing a Harmonic Acoustic Analysis
12.3. Postprocessing a Modal or Transient Acoustic Analysis

12.1. Helpful Postprocessing Commands

The following commands are helpful in postprocessing acoustic analysis results:
Table 12.1: Postprocessing Commands
Task

Command

Select the real solution.

SET,1,1,,0

Select the imaginary solution.

SET,1,1,,1

Select the amplitude.

SET,1,1,,AMPL

Print pressure, SPL, or dBA at corner nodes. [1][2]

PRNSOL,PRES (or SPL or SPLA)

Print velocity at corner nodes. [1][2]

PRVECT,PG

Create element table item for the gradient of centroid pressure

field [3], X component. Issue similar commands for Y and Z
components.

ETABLE,Lab,PG,X

Print the specified element table items.

PRETAB

1. Average of selected elements adjacent to nodes

2. RMS value: measurable values are the sum of real and imaginary parts.
3. Instantaneous value (real/imaginary, at t = 0 and t = -90) in the case of a harmonic
analysis.
For more information about notation, see the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
To view less frequently used items, issue the ETABLE command.
Most output items can be viewed (plotted) graphically. To do so, substitute the appropriate plot command
(PLxxxxx) for the corresponding print command (PRxxxxxx), as shown in this table:
Table 12.2: Plotting Commands
For this print command...

Substitute this plot command:

PRNSOL

PLNSOL

PRVECT

PLVECT

PRESOL

PLESOL

PRETAB

PLETAB
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Postprocessing Acoustic Analysis Results

Element table items can also be plotted. For more information, see Creating an Element Table in the
Basic Analysis Guide.
The ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL) also contains commands that may be useful in postprocessing and results processing. For more information about the APDL, see Uunderstanding User Programmable Features (UPFs).

12.2. Postprocessing a Harmonic Acoustic Analysis

The following topics for postprocessing a harmonic acoustic analysis are available:
12.2.1. Reviewing Analysis Results
12.2.2. Calculating Near Fields, Far Fields, and Far-Field Parameters
12.2.3. Calculating Acoustic Propagation Parameters

12.2.1. Reviewing Analysis Results

Results from an acoustic analysis are written to the results file Jobname.rst. Results include the following:
Primary data: Nodal DOFs (UX, UY, UZ, PRES)
Derived data:
Nodal displacements and pressures included in the overall nodal solution
Nodal velocity for modal and full harmonic or nodal pressure gradient for transient analysis
Nodal sound pressure level (SPL) and A-weighted sound pressure level (dBA) for modal and harmonic
analyses
Element velocity or the gradient of pressure (PGX, PGY, PGZ, PGSUM)
Element average pressure amplitude
Square of the L2 norm of pressure over element volume
Element effective complex mass density (if possible)
Element effective complex sound speed (if possible)
Element input power (if required)
Element output power (if required)
Many harmonic acoustic analysis results vary harmonically at the operating frequency (or frequencies)
for which the measurable quantities can be calculated as the real solution times cosine(t) minus the
imaginary solution times sine(t) where is the angular frequency. (See Harmonic Analysis Using
Complex Formalism in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.)
For more information, see Elements for Acoustic Analysis in the Element Reference.
Review analysis results via the POST1 general postprocessor (/POST1). Typically, the results are out-ofphase with the input loads. The solution is calculated and stored in terms of real and imaginary components.

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Postprocessing a Harmonic Acoustic Analysis

Use POST1 to review results over the entire model at specific frequencies. For viewing results over a
range of frequencies, use the POST26 time-history postprocessor (/POST26).
For a complete description of all postprocessing functions, see An Overview of Postprocessing in the
Basic Analysis Guide.
The following topics discuss some typical POST1 operations for calculating the near- and far-fields and
parameters for acoustic devices.

12.2.2. Calculating Near Fields, Far Fields, and Far-Field Parameters

Postprocessing commands are available for calculating the near or far sound pressure field beyond the
FEA computational domain.
The commands PRNEAR, PLNEAR, PRFAR, and PLFAR use the surface equivalence principle to determine
the sound pressure field. The surface equivalence principle states that equivalent sources can exactly
represent the pressure field exterior to the surface. For more information, see Acoustic Output Quantities
in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
Before issuing the postprocessing commands:
1. Flag an equivalent source surface (Lab = MXWF on the SF command) in the preprocessor before solution.
For more information, see Equivalent Surface Source (p. 41).
2. If there is a symmetry plane in the modeled region, indicate its presence (HFSYM). For more information,
see Accounting for Model Symmetry (p. 59).
3. If the radiation space when calculating radiation parameters is not the entire spherical domain, define
the spatial angles (HFANG).
The following additional topics are available for calculating near fields, far fields, and far-field parameters:
12.2.2.1. Accounting for Model Symmetry
12.2.2.2. Radiation Solid Angle
12.2.2.3. Near Sound Pressure Field
12.2.2.4. Far Sound Pressure Field and Far-Field Parameters
12.2.2.5. Far-Field Microphone

12.2.2.1. Accounting for Model Symmetry

You must account for symmetry planes in the modeled domain for postprocessing near or far sound
pressure field beyond the computational domain.
The HFSYM command accounts for the sound-soft or sound-hard symmetry planes that coincide with
the X-Y, Y-Z or Z-X planes of the global or local Cartesian coordinate system. It applies the image principle
on the symmetric part of the computational domain to represent the radiation effect of the partial
equivalent source beyond the modeled domain so that the radiation from the entire structure is modeled.
If sound-soft or sound-hard symmetry planes exist, issue the HFSYM command before issuing a postprocessing command (PRNEAR, PLNEAR, PRFAR, or PLFAR). Although a sound-hard symmetry plane
is a natural boundary condition in a finite element analysis, it must be defined via the HFSYM command.

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Postprocessing Acoustic Analysis Results

Example 12.1: Defining the Symmetric Planes for a Far-Field Calculation
/post1
hfsym,,shb,shb,ssb ! y-z, x-z plane as sound hard and x-y as sound soft
plfar,pres,sump,, ! plot far-field pressure in polar coordinate

12.2.2.2. Radiation Solid Angle

When calculating radiation parameters, the radiation space can be specified.
The HFANG command defines the radiation space of a sound radiator in terms of the type of radiator.
For example, the solid angle of a sound dipole is determined by [0,360] and [0,180], and the solid
angle of a piston above an infinite baffle is associated with [0,360] and [0,90].
If the sound pressure wave is not radiated into the entire space, issue the HFANG command before issuing a postprocessing command (PRNEAR, PLNEAR, PRFAR, or PLFAR).

12.2.2.3. Near Sound Pressure Field

The maximum sound pressure can be printed or plotted beyond the FEA computational domain.
To print the near sound pressure field, issue the PRNEAR command.
To plot the sound pressure along a path:
1. Define a path (PATH and PPATH).
2. Issue either the PRNEAR or PLNEAR command to map the sound pressure onto the path.
3. Issue the PLPAGM or PLPATH command.

12.2.2.4. Far Sound Pressure Field and Far-Field Parameters

The far sound pressure field and far-field parameters (for example, radiation patterns, directivity, radiated
power, radiation efficiency, and target strength) are essential for sound radiation or sound scattering
analysis.
The far sound pressure field and far-field parameters can be printed (PRFAR) or plotted (PLFAR) beyond
the FEA computational domain.
To print or plot the 2-D far-field parameters in a 3-D computational model, extrude the 2-D model for
a distance z in the Z-direction to generate a 3-D numerical model. For more information, see Acoustic
Output Quantities in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.

12.2.2.5. Far-Field Microphone

The far field and far-field parameters at a given frequency can be monitored and stored. To do so, issue
this command:
*GET,par,0,ACUS,Item1
To obtain a far field or a far-field parameter with the parameter par via the *GET command, issue the
PRFAR or PLFAR command at a specified position prior to issuing the *GET command.

60

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Postprocessing a Harmonic Acoustic Analysis

Example 12.2: Storing a Far-Field Parameter at a Given Frequency
/post1
hfsym,1,ssb,shb,ssb
set,1,1
plfar,pres,splp,0,0,1,0,360,5,10,2.e-5
plfar,pres,splc,0,0,1,0,0,1,10
*get,par,0,acus,spl
fini

! set symmetric planes

! spl in polar plot
! spatial point
! store spl

12.2.3. Calculating Acoustic Propagation Parameters

After solving an acoustic problem, it may be desirable to calculate some parameters for the underlying
acoustic system. The following parameters can be calculated:
Input power
Output power
Return loss
Attenuation coefficient
Transmission loss
Perform the calculation in the POST1 general postprocessor (/POST1) by first reading in the solution
for a given frequency and then performing postprocessing tasks based on the corresponding definition
of the parameter.
To calculate the acoustic propagation parameters for two ports of a network, issue the SPOWER command
after defining the port numbers (SF) in the preprocessor.
If OUTLETPORT is defined via SPOWER, INLETPORT is the driven port and should be defined.
SPOWER ports should be matching. Impedance boundaries are applied to the port surfaces to absorb
the outgoing pressure waves without reflection.
When only INLETPORT is defined on the surface, SPOWER calculates the output power via the INLETPORT surface.
The command writes the power data into a Touchstone-format file (jobname.anp) over a frequency
range (n = 1 or 2).
To plot the power data, issue the PLST command.
Example 12.3: Calculating Acoustic Propagation Parameters
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,port,3
sf,all,impd,z01
sf,all,shld,-vn

nsel,s,loc,l
sf,all,port,1
sf,all,impd,z02

/solu
antype,harm
harfrq,0,300
nsub,3
solve

!
!
!
!

select
define
define
define

nodes on inlet
port 3 on inlet
impedance on inlet
normal velocity on inlet

! select nodes on outlet

! define port 1 on outlet
! define impedance on outlet

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61

Postprocessing Acoustic Analysis Results

fini
/post1
spower,3,1
plst,filename,a2p,TL
fini

12.3. Postprocessing a Modal or Transient Acoustic Analysis

Use the POST1 general postprocessor (/POST1) to view modal or transient acoustic analysis results over
the entire model at specific eigen frequencies.
To view results over a range of frequencies, use the POST26 time history postprocessor (/POST26).
For a complete description of all postprocessing functions, see An Overview of Postprocessing the Basic
Analysis Guide.

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Chapter 13: Acoustic Analysis Examples

The following example analyses illustrate acoustic elements and commands used in a variety of applications:
13.1. Example: Acoustic-Structural Coupled Modal Resonance of an Annular Ring Submerged in Water with a
Harmonic Analysis
13.2. Example: Sloshing Modes of a Cylindrical Cavity
13.3. Example: Resonant Frequencies in a Pipe with Ideal Gas
13.4. Example: Acoustic Harmonic Response in a Room
13.5. Example: Transmission Loss of a Muffler
13.6. Example: Johnson-Champoux-Allard Model of a Perforated Material
13.7. Example: Transfer Admittance Matrix in Fluid
13.8. Example: Boundary Layer Impedance Model of a Rigid Walled Waveguide with Viscous-Thermal Fluid
13.9. Example: Radiation from Two Waveguides
13.10. Example: Radiation from a Dipole
13.11. Example: Monopole Incident Wave Scattering of a Rigid Sphere
13.12. Example: Planar Incident Wave FSI Scattering of an Infinite Cylindrical Shell
13.13. Example: One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics
13.14. Example: Modal Analysis of an Acoustic-Structural Coupled Structure with Nonlinear Static Prestress Using
Linear Perturbation
Also see Acoustic Analysis of a Small Speaker System in the Technology Demonstration Guide.

13.1. Example: Acoustic-Structural Coupled Modal Resonance of an Annular Ring Submerged in Water with a Harmonic Analysis
This example problem determines the first flexural mode (egg mode) frequency of an annular ring
submerged in water which extends to infinity. A harmonic analysis is performed using a frequency
sweep between 34 and 38 Hz.
The distance from the center of the ring to the infinite elements is at least equal to (D/2) + 0.2, where
D is the outer diameter of the ring, and = c/f is the dominant wavelength of the pressure waves.
Using 0.26035 for the outer radius of the ring, 1460 for the speed of sound (c), and 36 for the estimated
dominant frequency (f ), gives (D/2) + 0.2 = 0.26035 + (0.2)(1460)/36 = 8.37146. This distance is much
greater than that required when using the acoustic infinite element, however, and so a distance of 2x
the outer radius of the ring is used ( 2 x .26035 = .5207).
/BATCH,LIST
/VERIFY,EV129-1S
/PREP7
/TITLE,AMA,EV129-1S,FLUID129,HARMONIC ANALYSIS
ET,1,PLANE182,2
ET,2,FLUID29
et,3,129
r,3,0.5207,0,0
ET,4,FLUID29,,1,0

! structural element
! acoustic fluid element with ux & uy
! acoustic infinite line element
! acoustic fluid element without ux & uy
! material properties

MP,EX,1,2.068e11
MP,DENS,1,7929
MP,NUXY,1,0
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63

Acoustic Analysis Examples

MP,DENS,2,1030
MP,SONC,2,1460
! create inner and outer quarter circles
CYL4,0,0,0.254,0,0.26035,90
CYL4,0,0,0.26035,0,0.5207,90
! select, assign attribute to and mesh area 1
ASEL,S,AREA,,1
AATT,1,1,1,0
LESIZE,1,,,16,1
LESIZE,3,,,16,1
LESIZE,2,,,1,1
LESIZE,4,,,1,1
MSHKEY,1
MSHAPE,0,2D
AMESH,1

! mapped quad mesh

! select, assign attribute to and mesh area 2

ASEL,S,AREA,,2
AATT,2,1,2,0
LESIZE,5,,,16,1
LESIZE,7,,,16,1
LESIZE,6,,,5
LESIZE,8,,,5
MSHKEY,0
MSHAPE,0,2D
AMESH,2
nsym,x,1000,all
esym,,1000,all
nsym,y,2000,all
esym,,2000,all
NUMMRG,ALL

! mapped quad mesh

! reflect quarter circle into semicircle about x-axis
! offset node number by 1000
! reflect semicircle into full circle about y-axis
! offset node number by 2000
! merge all quantities
! modify outer 2 layers of el29 into type 4

esel,s,type,,1
nsle,s
esln,s,0
nsle,s
esel,inve
nsle,s
emodif,all,type,4
esel,all
nsel,all
! define el129 line element
csys,1
nsel,s,loc,x,0.5207
type,3
real,3
mat,2
esurf
esel,all
nsel,all
! flag interface as fluid-structure interface
nsel,s,loc,x,0.26035
esel,s,type,,2
sf,all,fsi,1
nsel,all
esel,all
FINISH
! enter solution module
/SOLU
ANTYPE,harmic
hropt,full
f,19,fx,1000.
f,1019,fx,-1000.
harfrq,34.,38.
nsubst,100
kbc,1
SOLVE
FINISH

! select harmonic analysis

! postprocess
/post26
plcplx,0

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Example: Sloshing Modes of a Cylindrical Cavity

nsol,2,1,u,x,d1ux
store
conjug,3,2
prod,4,2,3
sqrt,5,4
*get,uxmx,vari,5,extrem,tmax
/COM ------------------------------------------------------------/COM
Expected Result:
/COM
/COM The following "uxmx" should equal 34.52 Hz.
/COM ------------------------------------------------------------*status,uxmx
finish

13.2. Example: Sloshing Modes of a Cylindrical Cavity

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the sloshing modes of a cylindrical
cavity.
The inner and outer radius of the cavity are 0.1 m and 0.2 m, respectively.
The height of the cavity is 0.2 m, including a cylindrical steel solid with the height 0.1 m at the bottom.
The bottom surface of the cavity is constrained.
The free surface is defined at the top of the water.
/batch,list
/title,Modal Analysis of Free
/nopr
/prep7
!
r1=0.1
!
r2=0.2
!
h=0.1
!
nr=5
ntheta=30
nz=5
local,11,,,,,,,90
!
wpcsys,,11
cyl4,0,0,r1,,r2,,h
wpro,,90.
vsbw,all
wpro,,,90.
vsbw,all
local,12,1,,,,,,90
csys,12
lsel,all
lsel,u,loc,x,r1
lsel,u,loc,x,r2
lesize,all,,,nr
lsel,s,loc,x,r1
lsel,u,loc,z,h
lsel,u,loc,z,0.0
lesize,all,,,nz
lsel,s,loc,x,r2
lsel,u,loc,z,h
lsel,u,loc,z,0.0
lesize,all,,,nz
lsel,s,loc,x,r1
lsel,r,loc,z,h
lesize,all,,,ntheta
lsel,s,loc,x,r2
lsel,r,loc,z,h
lesize,all,,,ntheta
lsel,s,loc,x,r1
lsel,r,loc,z,0.0
lesize,all,,,ntheta

Surface Effects

create geometry
inner radius
outer radius
height

local coordinate

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65

Acoustic Analysis Examples

lsel,s,loc,x,r2
lsel,r,loc,z,0.0
lesize,all,,,ntheta
csys,11
alls
mshkey,1
et,1,220,,0
mp,sonc,1,1500.
mp,dens,1,1000.
et,2,186,
mp,ex,2,1.44e11
mp,dens,2,7700
mp,nuxy,2,0.35

!
!
!
!
!

define elements
coupled acoustic element
sound speed
mass density
structural element

! create mesh
type,1
mat,1
vsweep,all
alls
type,2
mat,2
vsymm,z,all
alls
nummgr,all
vsel,s,loc,z,0,-h
eslv,s,
emodif,all,,2
alls
! flag free surface
nsel,s,loc,z,h
sf,all,free
! define constrains
nsel,s,loc,z,-h
d,all,uz,0
d,all,ux,0
d,all,uy,0
! flag fsi interface
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,fsi
alls
csys,0
acel,9.81,0,0
fini

! gravity acceleration
! perform a solution

/solu
antype,modal
modopt,unsym,20,0.05
mxpand,20
solve
fini
! post-processing
/post1
set,list
/com,analytical eigenfrequencies are listed below
/com,f1 = 0.996
/com,f2 = 1.704
/com,f3 = 2.176
/com,f4 = 2.521
/com,f5 = 2.814
/com,f6 = 2.852
/com,f7 = 2.960
/com,f8 = 3.120
/com,f9 = 3.313
/com,
fini

13.3. Example: Resonant Frequencies in a Pipe with Ideal Gas

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the resonant frequencies in a pipe
filled with the ideal gas.

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Example: Resonant Frequencies in a Pipe with Ideal Gas

The pipe dimensions are 0.02 x 0.05 x 1m3. The material properties are defined at the reference temperature TREF = 288.15 K.
The temperatures are set to 2000 K and 400 K at z = 0 and z = 1 m, respectively.
The temperature varies linearly from one end to the other.
A constant static pressure is used.
/batch,list
/title,Ideal gas with linear temperature variation
/nopr
/prep7
! define element and material
et,1,220,,1
rho=1.225
! density
c=340
! sonic speed
p0=101325
! constant static pressure
mp,sonc,1,c
mp,dens,1,rho
! define the geometry
a=0.02
b=0.05
c=1
block,0,a,0,b,0,c
! create mesh
h=0.01
mshape,0,3d
esize,h
type,1
mat,1
vmesh,all
alls
tref,288.15
! reference T = 288.15 K
! linear temperature variation: T=2000 (z=0); T=400 (z=c)
*get,ndmax,NODE,0,COUNT
node=0
*do,i,1,ndmax
node=ndnext(node)
zi=nz(node)
con= (-1600/c)*zi+2000
nsel,s,loc,z,zi
bf,all,temp,con
nsel,all
*enddo
alls
nsel,all
! constant static pressure p0=101325 Pa
bf,all,chrgd,p0
! define the boundary condition
nsel,s,loc,z,c
d,all,pres,0
alls
fini
! perform a solution
/solu
antype,modal
modopt,lanb,6,50,2000
! six modes between 50 and 2000 Hz
mxpand,6
solve
fini
/post1
*dim,result,array,6
*do,i,1,6
set,1,i
*get,freq,active,,set,freq
result(i) = freq
*enddo
/com,

! get resonant frequency

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67

Acoustic Analysis Examples

/com,
*vwrite,result(1)
(18X,F15.4)
finish

***** Resonant Frequencies (Hz) *****

13.4. Example: Acoustic Harmonic Response in a Room

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID30 to predict the acoustic standing wave pattern
of a typical enclosure representing a room.
A sound-absorption material is located at the bottom surface of the enclosure and a vibrating structure
with a cylindrical surface is located at the top right hand corner of the enclosure.
The problem determines the acoustic pressure wave pattern when the structure vibrates at an excitation
frequency of 80 Hz.
/batch,list
/com, Harmonic Analysis - Room Acoustics
/nopr
/PREP7
/TITLE,Room Acoustic Analysis
ANTYPE,HARM
ET,1,30
! Acoustic elements in contact with walls and vibrating surface
ET,2,30,,1
! Acoustic elements in interior (not in contact with walls)

RHO=1.2041
C0=343.24
Z0=RHO*C0
MP,DENS,1,RHO
MP,SONC,1,C0
XDIV=29
YDIV=19
ZDIV=1
CDIV=2

!
!
!
!

Material properties
density of air (kg/m**3)
speed of sound in air (m/sec)
Sound impedance

!
!
!
!
!
!

Set parameters for mesh generation

Number of divisions along x-axis
Number of divisions along y-axis
Number of divisions along z-axis
Number of divisions along radius
Dimensions of the room

LEN=8.2296
HGT=6.0960
RAD=0.27432
ZL=-0.3048
! Mesh generation
K,1
K,2,LEN
K,3,LEN,HGT
K,4,,HGT
K,5,,,ZL
K,6,LEN,,ZL
K,7,LEN,HGT,ZL
K,8,,HGT,ZL
L,1,5,1
L,2,6,1
L,3,7,1
L,4,8,1
CIRC,3,RAD,7,2,90,2
ADRAG,5,6,,,,, 3
PIO4=ATAN(1)
LENC=COS(PIO4)
LENC=LENC*RAD
HGTC=HGT-LENC
LENC=LEN-LENC
K,15,,HGTC
K,16,,HGTC,ZL
K,17,LENC
K,18,LENC,,ZL
L,1 ,17,XDIV
L,10,15,XDIV
L,11,4 ,XDIV
L,17,10,YDIV

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Example: Acoustic Harmonic Response in a Room

L,15, 1,YDIV
L,2 ,9 ,YDIV
L,5 ,18,XDIV
L,13,16,XDIV
L,14,8 ,XDIV
L,18,13,YDIV
L,16,5 ,YDIV
L,6 ,12,YDIV
ESIZE,,CDIV
V,1 ,17,10,15, 5,18,13,16
V,15,10,11,4 ,16,13,14,8
V,17,2 ,9 ,10,18,6 ,12,13
VMESH,ALL
ALLS
! Coupled elements
NSEL,S,LOC,X,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,X,LEN
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,HGT
LOCAL,11,1,LEN,HGT
NSEL,A,LOC,X,RAD
ESLN
ESEL,INVE
TYPE,2
EMODIF,ALL
ALLS
NSEL,S,LOC,X,RAD
ESLN
SF,ALL,FSI
CSYS,0
NSEL,S,LOC,X,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,X,LEN
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,HGT
D,ALL,UX,,,,,UY,UZ
CSYS,11
NSEL,S,LOC,X,RAD
NROTAT,ALL
D,ALL,UX,.003048
D,ALL,UY,,,,,UZ
ALLS

! Interior elements are specified as Type=2 & material=3

!
!
!
!
!

Fluid-Structure Interface (FSI)

Select interface (FSI) surface nodes
Select elements attached to interface surface
Specify vibrating surface as Fluid-structure interface
Boundary conditions

! Constrain all displacements to zero at the walls

! Select interface (FSI) surface nodes
! Radial vibration amplitude of Vibrating surface

!
CSYS,0
NSEL,S,LOC,X,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,X,LEN
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,0.0
NSEL,A,LOC,Y,HGT
SF,ALL,IMPD,Z0/0.04
!
HX=LENC/XDIV
NSEL,S,LOC,Y,0.0
NSEL,R,LOC,X,13*HX,17*HX
SF,ALL,IMPD,Z0/0.7
!
ALLS
FINISH
/SOLU
!
HARF,80,80
!
SOLVE
FINISH
!
/POST1
/SHOW,ENCL1,GRPH,1
SET,1,1
!
EPLOT
/EDGE,1
/TITLE,-ROOM ACOUSTICSPLNS,PRES
SET,1,1,,1
!
/TITLE,-ROOM ACOUSTICS-

Impedance surface (IMPD)

Wall impedance

Window impedance

Excitation Frequency for Harmonic Analysis

Frequency of excitation = 80 Hz

Plot the Standing Wave Pattern (f = 80 Hz)

plot the real part of pressure response

* REAL PART OF PRESSURE

plot the imag. part of pressure response
* IMAG. PART OF PRESSURE

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69

Acoustic Analysis Examples

PLNS,PRES
FINISH

13.5. Example: Transmission Loss of a Muffler

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID221 to predict the acoustic transmission loss of
a muffler.
The radius and length of the chamber are 0.0766445 m and 0.2032 m, respectively.
The radius and length of the inlet and outlet pipe are 0.0174625 m and 0.104775 m, respectively.
/batch,list
/title, Transmission Loss of Muffle
/show,png
/nopr
/PREP7
rho=1.2041
! air mass density
c0=343.24
! air sound speed
z0=rho*c0
freqE=3000
! highest working frequency
wave=c0/freqE
! wavelength at the highest frequency
p=1
vn=-p/(rho*c0)
! normal velocity excitation
! define element and materials
et,1,221,,1
! tet uncoupled element
mp,dens,1,rho
! material
mp,sonc,1,c0
! create the model
rapipe=0.0174625
lpipe=0.104775
rchamb=0.0766445
lchamb=0.2032
cylind,0,rapipe,0,lpipe,0,180
cylind,0,rchamb,lpipe,lpipe+lchamb,0,180
cylind,0,rapipe,lpipe+lchamb,2*lpipe+lchamb,0,180
vsel,all
vglue,all
! mesh the geometry
h=wave/10
! 10 elements/per wavelength
esize,h
type,1
mat,1
vmesh,all
nummrg,all
! define excitation and boundary conditions on inlet and outlet port
nsel,s,loc,z,0
! nodes on inlet
sf,all,port,1
! inlet port
sf,all,shld,vn
! normal velocity
sf,all,impd,z0
! impedance boundary on inlet
nsel,s,loc,z,2*lpipe+lchamb ! nodes on outlet
sf,all,port,2
! outlet port
sf,all,inf
! radiation boundary on outlet
alls
fini
! perform solutions
/solu
antype,harmic
hropt,auto
kbc,1
harf,0,freqE
nsub,60
! 50 Hz interval with 60 steps
solve
finish
! post-processing
/post1
spower,1,2
! calculate sound power data
plst,file0102,a2p,tl
! plot transmission loss
fini

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Example: Johnson-Champoux-Allard Model of a Perforated Material

13.6. Example: Johnson-Champoux-Allard Model of a Perforated Material

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID221 to predict the sound pressure in an impedance
tube loaded with the perforated material using a Johnson-Champoux-Allard equivalent fluid model.
The frequency-dependent perforated material properties are defined.
The sound-hard boundary is applied to the walls of the pipe except for the inlet.
/batch,list
/title, JCA model with frequency-dependent parameters
/nopr
/prep7
FREQ1 = 2000
! beginnng frequency
FREQ2 = 4000
! ending frequency
SPEED = 343
! sound speed
DENSITY= 1.2
! mass density
NUM_EPW
= 8
! no. of element per wavelength
NUM_STEPS = 3
! number of frequencies
RESIS1 = 10000
RESIS2 = 10800
PORO1 = 0.88
PORO2 = 0.98
TORTU1 = 1.00
TORTU2 = 1.04
VISCL = 129e-6
THERL = 198e-6
DIM_WIDTH =
DIM_PERF
=
DIM_WAVELNG=
DIM_ESIZE =
DIM_LENGTH =
LOADING

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

resistivity at FREQ1
resistivity at FREQ2
porosity at FREQ1
porosity at FREQ2
tortuosity at FREQ1
tortuosity at FREQ2
viscous characteristic length
thermal characteristic length
define geometry

30e-3
51.44e-3
SPEED/FREQ2
DIM_WAVELNG/NUM_EPW
5*DIM_PERF

= 1e3/SPEED*2
! define element

et,1,221
keyopt,1,2,1
et,2,221
keyopt,2,2,1
! define real constant
r,1
r,2
! define material
mp,sonc,1,SPEED
mp,dens,1,DENSITY
mpcopy,,1,2

! copy material model data

! define frequency-dependent JCA model

tb,perf,2,,,JCA
tbfield,freq,FREQ1
tbdata,1,RESIS1,PORO1,TORTU1,VISCL,THERL
tbfield,freq,FREQ2
tbdata,1,RESIS2,PORO2,TORTU2,VISCL,THERL
! create geometry
block,,DIM_WIDTH,,DIM_LENGTH,,DIM_WIDTH
block,,DIM_WIDTH,,-DIM_PERF,,DIM_WIDTH
nummrg,kp,1e-8,1e-8
! create mesh
vsel,s,loc,y,-DIM_PERF,0
vatt,2,2,2
vsel,all
esize,DIM_ESIZE
vmesh,all
! define loads
asel,s,loc,y,DIM_LENGTH
nsla,s,1

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71

Acoustic Analysis Examples

bf,all,js,LOADING
sf,all,inf
allsel,all
finish

! mass source
! Robin radiation boundary flag

! perform a solution
/solu
antype,harmic
harfrq,1000,4000
hropt,auto
nsubst,3
solve
finish
!
/post1
*dim,pre,array,NUM_STEPS
*dim,frq,array,NUM_STEPS
*do,i,1,NUM_STEPS
set,1,i
*get,frq(i),active,,set,freq !
*get,pre(i),NODE,79,pres
!
*enddo
/com,
/com,
***** Ansys
/com,
/com,
Frequency (Hz)
*vwrite,frq(1),pre(1)
(7X,F15.4,10x,F15.4)
finish

post-processing

get resonant frequency

get pressure at node 79

Results *****
Pressure (Pa)

13.7. Example: Transfer Admittance Matrix in Fluid

This sample problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the sound wave reflection due to
the existence of an unsymmetric 22 admittance matrix. The transfer admittance matrix is defined as:

Both ports of the 2 x 2 network are connected to the fluid.

The sound wave characteristic impedance is Z0 = 417.45 Ns/m3.
In terms of the network theory, the reflection coefficients are 0.15 and 0.20 at port 1 and port 2, respectively.
/batch,list
/title, Transfer Admittance Matrix in the Fluid
/nopr
/prep7
pi=acos(-1)
k=8*pi
! wave number
rho0 = 1.21
! mass density
c0 = 345
! sound speed
freq = k*344/(2*pi)
! working frequency
wavelen = 2*pi/k
! wavelength

h = wavelen/12
d = 2*h
l = 0.75*wavelen
z1 = l/2
z2 = z1+0.05*h
z3 = z2+l/2

! structure dimensions
! mesh size

! define elements and material

et,1,220,,1
mp,dens,1,rho0

72

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Example: Transfer Admittance Matrix in Fluid

mp,sonc,1,c0
mp,dens,2,rho0
mp,sonc,2,c0
y11r=0.634852E-02
y11i=0.
y12r=-0.437959E-02
y12i=0.437959E-02
y21r=-0.437959E-02
y21i=-0.437959E-02
y22r=0.598419E-02
y22i=0.

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

set transfer admittance matrix parameters

Re(Y11)
Im(Y11)
Re(Y12)
Im(Y12)
Re(Y21)
Im(Y21)
Re(Y22)
Im(Y22)
define transfer admittance matrix

tbdel,perf,2
tb,perf,2,,,YMAT
tbdata,1,y11r,y11i,y12r,y12i,y21r,y21i
tbdata,7,y22r,y22i
tblist,perf,2
! define normal velocity
pa=1
z0=rho0*c0
un=-pa/z0
! create model
block,-d/2,0,-d/2,d/2,0,z1
block,-d/2,0,-d/2,d/2,z1,z2
block,-d/2,0,-d/2,d/2,z2,z3
vglue,all
mshape,0,3d
esize,h
type,1
mat,1
vsel,s,loc,z,0,z1
vsel,a,loc,z,z2,z3
vmesh,all
! mesh with normal material
type,1
mat,2
vsel,s,loc,z,z1,z2
vmesh,all
! mesh with admittance matrix
! define ports for admittance matrix
esel,s,mat,,2
nsle,s
nsel,s,loc,z,z1
sf,all,port,1
nsel,s,loc,z,z2
sf,all,port,2
alls

! port 1 of 2-port network

! port 2 of 2-port network

! define boundary condition

nsel,s,loc,z,z3
sf,all,impd,z0

! matched outlet
! excitation at transparent port

nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,un
sf,all,impd,z0
sf,all,port,10
alls
fini

! normal velocity excitation

! matched inlet
! transparent port

! perform solution
/solu
antype,harmic
hropt,auto
harfrq,freq
solve
fini
! post-processing
/post1
nsel,s,loc,z,0
nsel,r,loc,x,0
nsel,r,loc,y,-d/2

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73

Acoustic Analysis Examples

nod=0
node=ndnext(nod)
set,,,,,,,1
! real solution
*get,frq,active,0,set,freq
pr=pres(node)
set,,,,,,,2
! imaginary solution
pi=pres(node)
ref=sqrt((pa-pr)**2+pi**2)/pa
/com,
/com,***** Computed Reflection Coefficient *****
/com,
*vwrite,
(' Frequency
Computed |R|')
*vwrite,frq,ref
(1x,e14.7,6x,e14.7)
fini

13.8. Example: Boundary Layer Impedance Model of a Rigid Walled

Waveguide with Viscous-Thermal Fluid
This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the sound pressure level at the
closed end of a rigid walled waveguide.
The waveguide is terminated by a rigid wall at one end (z = Lz) and driven by a plane piston at another
end (z = 0).
The square cross section of waveguide is Lx = Ly = 15 mm, and the length Lz is 170 mm.
The analytic value of the pressure at z = Lz is given by:
z

z00

0 0 0

z00 z

where:
2

=

=
2 +

x

+ y

x y

For more information about viscous-thermal parameters, see Viscous-Thermal Materials in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference
/batch,list
/title,BLI model for waveguide with visco-thermal fluid
/nopr
/prep7
freq1 = 880
! beginning frequency
freq2 = 1100
! ending frequency
rho = 1.29
! mass density
c0 = 340
! sound speed
kx = 0.0241
! thermal conductivity
visc = 1.71e-5
! dynamic viscosity
cv = 654.1376
! Cv heat coefficient
cp = 915.7926
! Cp heat coefficient
bvis=0.6*visc
! bulk viscosity
wavelen=c0/freq2
! wavelength
v0=2.45e-3
! normal velocity
! viscous-thermal material
tb,afdm,1,,,mat
tbdata,1,rho,c0,visc,kx,cp,cv,
tbdata,7,bvis
! create geometry

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Example: Radiation from Two Waveguides

d=0.005
l=0.170
block,-d/2,d/2,-d/2,d/2,0,l
! create mesh
h=wavelen/20
et,1,220,,1
esize,h
type,1
mat,1
vmesh,all
! define BLI boundary on rigid walls
nsel,s,loc,z,l
nsel,a,loc,x,-d/2
nsel,a,loc,x,d/2
nsel,a,loc,y,-d/2
nsel,a,loc,y,d/2
sf,all,bli
! define normal velocity on piston
nsel,s,loc,z,0
sf,all,shld,v0
alls
fini
! perform a solution
/solu
eqslv,sparse
antype,harmic
harfrq,freq1,freq2
nsub,11
solve
fini
! post-processing
/post26
nsel,s,loc,x,-d/2
nsel,r,loc,y,-d/2
nsel,r,loc,z,l
nod=0
node=ndnext(nod)
nsol,2,node,spl
fini

13.9. Example: Radiation from Two Waveguides

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the acoustic radiation wave pattern
from two waveguides that have pistons at one end and an infinite baffle at another end.
A sound-absorption material is located at the surfaces of the enclosure, modeled using PML.
For more information see Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
/batch
/prep7
! structure dimensions
pi=3.1415926535
k=8*pi
c0=340
freq=k*c0/(2*pi)
! define elements and material
et,11,200,7
et,1,220,,1
et,2,220,,1,,1
mp,dens,1,1.
mp,sonc,1,c0
d=0.1
l=1.
s=0.5
a=2
dpml=0.25
h=d/2
rect,-l,0,s/2,s/2+d

! acoustic
! pml

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75

Acoustic Analysis Examples

rect,-l,0,-s/2,-s/2-d
rect,0,a,-a/2,a/2
rect,0,a+dpml,-a/2-dpml,a/2+dpml
asba,4,3,,delete,keep
aglue,all
esize,h
type,11
amesh,all
mshape,0
mshkey,0
asel,all
asel,u,,,5
esla
type,1
mat,1
esize,,1
vext,all,,,0,0,d,
asel,s,,,5
type,2,
mat,1
esize,,1
vext,all,,,0,0,d,
asel,s,loc,z,0
aclear,all
alls
nummrg,all
! define boundary condition
nsel,s,loc,x,a+dpml
nsel,a,loc,y,-a/2-dpml
nsel,a,loc,y,a/2+dpml
d,all,pres,0.
! hard excitation source
nsel,s,loc,x,-l
d,all,pres,1
alls
fini
! perform solution
/solu
eqslv,sparse
antype,harmic
harfrq,freq
solve
fini
/post26
/out
prcplx,0
nsel,s,loc,x,0
nsel,r,loc,y,s/2+d
*get,A1,node,0,num,max
nsel,s,loc,x,0
nsel,r,loc,y,s/2
*get,A2,node,0,num,max
nsel,s,loc,x,0
nsel,r,loc,y,-s/2-d
*get,B1,node,0,num,max
nsel,s,loc,x,0
nsel,r,loc,y,-s/2
*get,B2,node,0,num,max
nsel,s,loc,x,a
nsel,r,loc,y,a/2
*get,C1,node,0,num,max
nsel,s,loc,x,a
nsel,r,loc,y,-a/2
*get,C2,node,0,num,max
allsel
nsol,2,A1,pres,,Input_A1
nsol,3,A2,pres,,Input_A2
nsol,4,B1,pres,,Input_B1
nsol,5,B2,pres,,Input_B2
nsol,6,C1,pres,,Output_C1
nsol,7,C2,pres,,Output_C2

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Example: Radiation from a Dipole

/com ***************Results****************************
prvar,2,4,
prvar,3,5,
prvar,6,7
/com *******************************************************
fini

13.10. Example: Radiation from a Dipole

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the acoustic radiation from a dipole.
The dipole is located inside of the model at point (0,0,0). The dipole length is defined as the half of the
mesh, and the dipole axis is along the x-direction.
Because of the symmetry exhibited by the dipole radiation pattern, only 1/8 of the radiation space is
modeled.
The Y-Z plane is a sound-soft plane. The other two coordinate planes are sound-hard planes.
PML is used to terminate the open radiation space.
For details about near- and far-field calculation, see the PLFAR, PRFAR, PLNEAR, and PRNEAR commands.
/batch,list
/title,Radiation from a Dipole
/nopr
/prep7
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

rho=1.2041
soundv=343.26
freq=1.e3
wavel=soundv/freq
omega=2.*3.1415926535*freq
p0=0.5*freq

define material properties

mass density
sound speed
working frequency
wavelength
angular frequency
amplitude of pressure
set model dimensions

*dim,a,array,4
a(1)=0
a(2)=a(1)+0.1*wavel
a(3)=a(2)+0.1*wavel
a(4)=a(3)+0.1*wavel
*do,i,1,3
*do,j,1,3
rect,a(i),a(i+1),a(j),a(j+1)
*enddo
*enddo
aglue,all
et,11,200,7
et,1,220,0,1
et,2,220,0,1,,1
mp,dens,1,rho
mp,sonc,1,soundv

!
!
!
!

define elements and material

temporary element
normal element
PML element

! create 2d mesh
h=(a(2)-a(1))/6
nz1=(a(3)-a(1))/h
local,11
wpcsys,,11
type,11
mshape,0
esize,h
amesh,all
asel,s,loc,x,0,a(3)
asel,r,loc,y,0,a(3)
cm,aa,area
esys,11
type,1

! set up local coordinate system

! meshing 2d model
! create 3d mesh

! set up element coordinate system

! normal element region

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77

Acoustic Analysis Examples

mat,1
esize,,nz1
vext,all,,,0,0,a(3)-a(1)
asel,s,loc,z,0
asel,u,,,aa
type,2
mat,1
esize,,nz1
vext,all,,,0,0,a(3)-a(1)
nz2=(a(4)-a(3))/h
esize,,nz2
asel,s,loc,z,a(3)
vext,all,,,0,0,a(4)-a(3)
allsel,all,all
nummrg,all
asel,s,loc,z,0
aclear,all
etdel,11
alls

! meshing PML region

! merge nodes
! delete 2d element

! constrains on PML exterior surface

nsel,s,loc,x,a(4)
nsel,a,loc,y,a(4)
nsel,a,loc,z,a(4)
d,all,pres,0.
! constrains on x=0 symmetric plane
nsel,s,loc,x,a(1)
d,all,pres,0.
alls
! analytic incident dipole inside of model
awave,1,dipo,pres,int,p0,0,0,0,0,rho,soundv,,h/2,1,0,0
finish
! perform a solution
/solu
antype,harmic
! harmonic analysis
harfrq,freq
! frequency for analysis
asol,scat,on
! scattered formulation
ascres,total
! output total pressure field
solve
finish
! post-processing
/post1
/show,png
set,1,1
hfsym,,ssb,shb,shb
! symmetric plane for far field
/com,
/com, ********************************************
/com, *
near/far analytic solution |p|
*
/com, ********************************************
/com, (x,y,z) |p|
/com, (1,0,0) 26.176
/com, (5,0,0) 5.235
/com, (10,0,0) 2.618
/com, (20,0,0) 1.309
/com,
/com, ********************************************
/com, *
near/far Ansys solution |p|
*
/com, ********************************************
/com,
prnear,point,psum,,1,0,0
prnear,point,psum,,5,0,0
prnear,point,psum,,10,0,0
prnear,point,psum,,20,0,0,
prfar,pres,sumc,0,0,1,90,90,1,20
prfar,pres,splc,0,0,1,90,90,1,20,2.e-5
prfar,pres,pwl,0,0,0,0,0,0,0,1.e-12
plfar,pres,sump,0,0,1,0,360,180,10
plfar,pres,splp,0,0,1,0,360,180,10,2.e-5
plfar,pres,dgpl,0,0,1,0,180,90
fini

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Example: Monopole Incident Wave Scattering of a Rigid Sphere

13.11. Example: Monopole Incident Wave Scattering of a Rigid Sphere

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID221 to predict the acoustic scattering of a
monopole incident wave of a rigid sphere (radius = 1 m).
The monopole spherical source is located at (2, 0, 0).
PML is used for truncation of the open space.
For more information, see Perfectly Matched Layers (PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
/batch,list
/com, harmonic analysis scattering from a rigid sphere
/title,Scattering of a Rigid Sphere
/nopr
/prep7
pi=3.1415926535
! material properties
rho=1.21
! air mass density
c0=343
! sound speed
ra=1
! radius of sphere
ka=5
! product of wavenumber and radius
wave2=2.*pi*ra/ka
! wavelength
h=wave2/10
! mesh size
freq=c0/wave2
! frequency
p0=1./(ka/ra)
! amplitude of incident pressure
! 10-node tetrahetral
et,1,221,,1
! normal tet
et,2,221,,1,,1
! pml tet
mp,dens,1,rho
! define density
mp,sonc,1,c0
! define sound speed
! define the model
xs=2.
n=nint((xs-1.01*ra)/h)
! keep source outside of model
npml=4
nb=2
na=n-npml-nb
*if,na,le,0,then
na=1
*endif
a=ra+na*h
b=a+nb*h
c=b+npml*h
sphere,0,ra,0,180
block,-a,a,0,a,-a,a
block,-b,b,0,b,-b,b
block,-c,c,0,c,-c,c
vsbv,4,3,,delete,keep
vsbv,3,2,,delete,keep
vsbv,2,1,,delete,delete
alls
vglue,all
! meshing
mshape,1,3d
mat,1
type,1
vsel,all
vsel,u,,,5
esize,h
vmesh,all
vsel,all
type,2
mat,1
esize,h
vsel,s,,,5
vmesh,all
alls
! define equivalent source surface
nsel,s,loc,x,-a,a
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79

Acoustic Analysis Examples

nsel,r,loc,y,0,a
nsel,r,loc,z,-a,a
esln,s,1,all
nsel,s,loc,x,a
nsel,a,loc,x,-a
nsel,a,loc,y,a
nsel,a,loc,z,-a,
nsel,a,loc,z,a
sf,all,mxwf
alls

! elements with selected nodes

! equivalent source surface

! define boundary condition on pml

nsel,s,loc,x,c
nsel,a,loc,x,-c
nsel,a,loc,y,c
nsel,a,loc,z,-c
nsel,a,loc,z,c
d,all,pres,0.
allsel,all

! pressure=0 on pml exterior

! define external monopole incident wave

awave,1,mono,pres,ext,p0,0,xs,0,0,rho,c0
fini
! perform solution
/solu
eqslv,sparse
antype,harmic
harfrq,freq
solve
fini
! pos-processing
/post1
set,1,1
hfsym,0,,shb,,
! sound-hard x-z plane
prnear,point,psum,0,-5,0,0
! near pressure at (-5,0,0)
prnear,point,psum,0,5,0,0
! near pressure ar (5,0,0)
prfar,pres,sumc,0,0,0,-90,90,18,5.
! far pressure at r=5
fini

13.12. Example: Planar Incident Wave FSI Scattering of an Infinite Cylindrical Shell
This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID221 to predict the acoustic scattering of a planar
incident wave of an infinite cylindrical shell (radius = 1 m, thickness = 0.02 m).
The FSI between the acoustic incident wave and the structural shell is taken into account.
The coupled harmonic problem uses the symmetric formulation, requiring fewer computational resources
than other formulations.
The incident plane wave is defined by the magnitude p0 = 1, the incident angle = 90 and = 180.
PML is used for the truncation of the open space. For more information, see Perfectly Matched Layers
(PML) in the Mechanical APDL Theory Reference.
/batch,list
/com,Plane wave FSI scattering from a cylindrical shell
/title,FSI Scattering of Cylindrical Shell
/nopr
/prep7
pi=3.1415926535
! material properties
rho=1025
! water mass density
c0=1520
! sound speed
ra=1
! radius of cylindrical shell
thick=0.02
! thickness of cylindrical shell
ka=2
! product of wavenumber and radius
k0=ka/ra

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Example: Planar Incident Wave FSI Scattering of an Infinite Cylindrical Shell

freq=k0*c0/(2.*pi)
wavel=c0/freq
h=wavel/10

!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!

et,11,200,7
et,1,220,2,0
et,2,220,2,1,,1
et,3,281
mp,dens,1,rho
mp,sonc,1,c0
mp,ex,2,2.1e11
mp,dens,2,7840
mp,nuxy,2,0.3

frequency
wavelength
nwsh size
define element properties
mesh element
20-node element using symmetric formula
pml element using symmetric formula
shell element
water density
water sound speed
solid young module
solid density
solid Minor Poisson's ratios
define the model

rb=ra+0.5*wavel
rc=rb+0.5*wavel
nz=2
zl=nz*h
cyl4,0,0,0,0,ra,180,0
*dim,a,array,4
*dim,b,array,3
a(1)=-rc
a(2)=-rb
a(3)=rb
a(4)=rc
b(1)=0
b(2)=rb
b(3)=rc
*do,i,1,3
*do,j,1,2
rect,a(i),a(i+1),b(j),b(j+1)
*enddo
*enddo
asba,4,1,,dele,dele
aglue,all
asel,s,loc,x,a(2),a(3)
asel,r,loc,y,b(1),b(2)
cm,aa,area
alls
! mesh the model
esize,h
type,11
amesh,all
asel,s,,,aa
type,1
mat,1
esize,,nz
vext,all,,,0,0,zl
alls
asel,s,loc,z,0
asel,u,,,aa
type,2
mat,1
esize,,nz
vext,all,,,0,0,zl
alls

! mesh 2d surface
! extrude 2d element to 3d

! extrude 2d element to 3d pml

! clean up 2d element

asel,s,loc,z,0
aclear,all
etdel,11
nummgr,all
! flag fsi interface
csys,1,
nsel,s,loc,x,ra
sf,all,fsi
alls
csys,0
! define shell element
sectype,,shell
secdata,thick,2
csys,1
nsel,s,loc,x,ra

! shell with thickness=0.02 and material 2

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81

Acoustic Analysis Examples

type,3
mat,2
esurf
alls
csys,0

! generate shell element

! define boundary condition

nsel,all
d,all,uz,0
nsel,s,loc,y,b(1)
d,all,uy,0
alls
! incident plane wave
p0=1
phi=180
theta=90
awave,1,plan,pres,ext,p0,0,phi,theta,,rho,c0
fini
! perform solution
/solu
asol,scat,on
! activate scattered field formula
ascres,total
! output total field
eqslv,sparse
! sparse direct solver
antype,harmic
! harmonic analysis
harfrq,freq
! define working frequency
solve
fini
/post1
! calculate the plane wave value on the shell surface
dtorad=3.1415926535/180.
kx=-k0*sin(theta*dtorad)*cos(phi*dtorad)
csys,1
nsel,s,loc,z,0
nsel,r,loc,x,ra
! nodes on shell
csys
*get,ndmax,NODE,0,COUNT
*dim,ang1,array,ndmax
*dim,psr,array,ndmax
*dim,psi,array,ndmax
*dim,pang,array,ndmax
node=0
*do,i,1,ndmax
node=ndnext(node)
xx=nx(node)
yy=ny(node)
pang(i)=kx*xx
! plane wave phase angle
ang1(i)=atan2(yy,xx)/dtorad
! nodal angle in polar coordinate
*enddo
! real solution of the pressure
set,1,1
node=0
*do,i,1,ndmax
node=ndnext(node)
pr0=p0*cos(pang(i))
! real part of incident plane wave
*get,pp,NODE,node,pres
! real part of total pressure solution
psr(i)=pp-pr0
! real part of scattered wave
*enddo
! imaginary solution of the pressure
set,1,1,,1
node=0
*do,i,1,ndmax
node=ndnext(node)
pi0=-p0*sin(pang(i))
! imaginary part of incident plane wave
*get,pp,NODE,node,pres
! imaginary part of total pressure solution
psi(i)=pp-pi0
! imaginary part of scattered wave
*enddo
! sort results in terms of angles
*do,i,1,ndmax-1
*do,j,i,ndmax
*if,ang1(j),lt,ang1(i),then
tmp=ang1(i)
ang1(i)=ang1(j)
ang1(j)=tmp

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Example: One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics

tmp=psr(i)
psr(i)=psr(j)
psr(j)=tmp
tmp=psi(i)
psi(i)=psi(j)
psi(j)=tmp
*endif
*enddo
*enddo
/com,******************************************************************
/com,*
Ansys results: scattered pressure on the shell surface
*
/com,******************************************************************
/com, Angle (Deg)
P_REAL
P_IMAG
/com,
*do,i,1,ndmax
ang0=ang1(i)
p0r=psr(i)
p0i=psi(i)
*vwrite,ang0,p0r,p0i
(2x,f7.2,17x,g12.5,6x,g12.5)
*enddo
fini

13.13. Example: One-Way Coupling from Structure to Acoustics

This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 to predict the one-way coupling from the
structure to acoustics.
In one-way sequential coupling, the structural analysis is performed first. The structural results on the
one-way coupling interface flagged on the structural model are stored in a file with the extension .asi,
then used in the sequential acoustic analysis as the excitation.
A square infinite steel pipe with the wall thickness 0.125 m, containing air with the cross section 1 x 1
m2, is simulated to demonstrate the process.
/batch,list
/title, one-way coupling via .asi file
/nopr
/prep7
! define elements
et,1,186
et,2,220,,1
et,11,200,7
! define steel material properties
mp,ex,1,1.44e11
mp,dens,1,7700
mp,nuxy,1,0.35
! define air material properties
mp,dens,2,1.21
mp,sonc,2,430
! create the mesh
h=0.0625
*dim,a,array,4
a(1)=0
a(2)=a(1)+2*h
a(3)=a(2)+1
a(4)=a(3)+2*h
*do,i,1,3
*do,j,1,3
rect,a(i),a(i+1),a(j),a(j+1)
*enddo
*enddo
aglue,all
asel,s,loc,x,a(2),a(3)
asel,r,loc,y,a(2),a(3)
cm,a1,area
alls
type,11
! 2d mesh
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83

Acoustic Analysis Examples

esize,h
amesh,all
lz=h
n=1
type,2
mat,2
asel,s,,,a1
esize,,n
vext,all,,,0,0,lz
type,1
mat,1
asel,s,loc,z,0
asel,u,,,a1
esize,,n
vext,all,,,0,0,lz
alls
asel,s,loc,z,0
aclear,all
etdel,11
alls
nummgr,all

! acoustic mesh

! structural area

! structural mesh
! delete 2d mesh

! define one-way coupling interface

esel,s,type,,1
nsle,s
nsel,s,loc,x,a(2)
nsel,a,loc,x,a(3)
nsel,a,loc,y,a(2)
nsel,a,loc,y,a(3)
sf,all,fsin,1
alls

! flag interface with fsin

! set boundary condition
! set displacement constraint

nsel,s,loc,y,0
d,all,ux,0
d,all,uy,0
d,all,uz,0
alls
nsel,all
d,all,uz,0

! set loads on the structure

nsel,s,loc,x,0
f,all,fx,1
alls
esel,u,type,,2
asifile,write
fini

! apply force
! unselect acoustic element in structure
! store interface structural results
! perform a structural solution

/solu
antype,harm
hropt,auto
kbc,1
harf,58,68
nsub,3
solve
fini

! frequency range
! solving at 3 frequencies

! start an acoustic analysis

/prep7
alls
esel,u,type,,1
asifile,read
fini

! unselect structural element in acoustics

! read stored structural results
! perform an acoustic solution

/solu
antype,harm
hropt,auto
kbc,1
harf,58,68
nsub,3
solve
fini

! frequency range
! solving at 3 frequencies

! post-processing
/post26
nn1 = node(0.125,0.125,0)

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Example: Modal Analysis of an Acoustic-Structural Coupled Structure with Nonlinear

Static Prestress Using Linear Perturbation
nsol,2,nn1,pres
fini

13.14. Example: Modal Analysis of an Acoustic-Structural Coupled

Structure with Nonlinear Static Prestress Using Linear Perturbation
This example problem demonstrates the use of FLUID220 and SHELL281 to predict the resonant modes
of an acoustic-structural coupled structure.
The structural shell is prestressed via a nonlinear static analysis with the large deformation first.
The mesh in the acoustic domain is morphed in terms of the deformation of the structural shell before
an acoustic-structural coupled modal analysis is performed (MORPH).
Finally, the linear perturbation scheme is used to solve the resonant modes of the acoustic-structural
coupled structure with updated mesh.
The acoustic domain is constructed by 0.2 x 0.2 x 0.2 m3 volume. An aluminum plate with a thickness
of 0.01 m is placed at X = 0.2 m. The plate has the dimension 0.01 x 0.2 x 0.2 m3. The constraints UX =
-1, UY = 0 and UZ = 0 (D) are imposed on the aluminum plate. On the X = 0 plane, the constraints UX
= 0 and UZ = 0 are imposed. On the Y = 0 plane, the constraints UY = 0 and UZ = 0 are imposed.
/batch,list
/nopr
/prep7
et,1,220
! acoustic element
et,2,281
! shell element
sectype,2,shell
! define section type as shell
secdata,0.01,2,0
! shell parameters
mp,dens,1,1.2
! acoustic mass density
mp,sonc,1,343
! sound speed
mp,dens,2,2700
! aluminum mass density
mp,ex ,2,70e9
! aluminum elastic moduli
mp,nuxy,2,.3
! aluminum minor Poissons rato
r,1
! real constant type 1
r,2
! real constant type 2
block,,.2,,.2,,.2 ! acoustic geometry
type,1
real,1
mat,1
esize,,10
vmesh,1
! mesh acoustic domain
alls
type,2
real,2
mat,2
secnum,2
asel,s,loc,x,0.2
nsla,s,1
esurf
! create shell element
alls
! define constrains
asel,s,loc,x,.2
nsla,s,1
d,all,ux,-0.1
d,all,uy
d,all,uz
asel,s,loc,x,0
nsla,s,1
d,all,ux,0,,,,uz
asel,s,loc,y,0
nsla,s,1
d,all,uy,0,,,,uz
! define fsi interface
esel,s,type,,1
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85

Acoustic Analysis Examples

nsle,s
nsel,r,loc,x,0.2
sf,all,fsi
alls
finish
! perform non-linear static solution
/solu
antype,static
nlgeom,on
cnvtol,f,1,1e-4
nsub,1
morph,on,,,,,,,,,on ! morphing acoustic domain
rescontrol,define,all,1
solve
finish
! set up linear perturbation
/solu
antype,static,restart,,,perturb
perturb,modal,,,parkeep ! set LP to modal analysis
solve,elform
! perform modal solution
modopt,unsym,5,0.001 ! set beginning frequency to 0.001 Hz
mxpand,5,,,yes
solve
finish

86

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