Symmetry constraint question...

[ptc-651426]

Anyone know what the difference is between the symmetry contraint in the Structure mode vs. Thermal mode? If I'm running a thermal analysis and want to apply a symmetry contraint for purposes of making a cylindrical model quarter-scale, (i.e., quarter symmetry) do I need to specify that in the structure mode or thermal mode or does it matter? Thanks,

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[neomechanikos]

A mirror symmetry in structural will just be ignored in thermal. A "mirror" in thermal assumes no heat flux (insulated) through the mirror plane, which is already the default by doing nothing to the surface.

[ptc-651426]

So when you say 'the default be doing nothing to the surface', are you saying that there is no need to apply a symmetry constraint to the mirrored surfaces? I guess because creo is solving for heat flux (Q/A), not total heat energy (Q). Is that right?

[neomechanikos]

Yep, that's how I understand it. My reference books say the same thing.

[ptc-3828731]

Mirror symmetry is not supported in Thermal mode....only cyclic symmetry can be utilized.....for your application, for a quarter size, cyclic symmetry can be applied.....and it has to be applied in thermal mode only...

Shiva