This is a subject that can sometimes be controversial, since depending on the source, author and market authority you can find different answers to the question: FEA versus FEM, which is the correct term? Firstly, by understanding the origin of the names:

-FEM is the acronym for Finite Element Method or FEM (MFinite Element Method) in Portuguese.

-FEA stands for Finite Element Analysis or AEF (Finite Finite Element) in Portuguese.

According to Siemens [1]: "Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is the modeling of products and systems in a virtual environment in order to locate and solve potential (or existing) structural or performance problems." SIMSCALE [2] considers that: "The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical technique used to perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of any physical phenomenon." Another interesting definition comes from the IEEE [3](Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) where: "FEA is a virtual model that helps engineers perform experiments with a specific structural design, usually using software as a tool. Together, FEA and the underlying mathematics of FEM are used to predict the structural behavior and integrity of a design."

FEA is used in real, complex engineering cases where a virtual, simulated environment is needed to avoid the costs of prototyping and experimentation. In some situations, this preliminary analysis of a new project can show points for improvement or indicate that a particular project may have flaws that could require more severe and costly interventions. In any case, compared to drawing up a physical model, the savings in time and resources are remarkable. 

Continuing, still from Siemens[1]: "FEA is the practical application of the Finite Element Method (FEM), used by engineers and scientists to mathematically model and numerically solve complex structural, multiphysics and fluid problems". According to Autodesk [4], "FEA is a computerized method for predicting how a product reacts to boundary conditions (loads, vibration, heat, fluid flow and other physical effects). In practice, finite element analysis makes it possible to investigate whether an asset will fail, wear out or meet its requirements."

From the conceptualizations presented, it is possible to summarize that FEA can be considered as an application of theory, foundation and methodology developed by academic knowledge of the method, that is, FEM(Finite Element Method).

On the other hand, some professionals claim that FEA is simply the more popular term in industry, while FEM is the term preferred by universities. Corroborating this claim, in Altair's Practical Aspects of Finite Element Analysis [5] it is made clear that the two terms refer to the same concept, with FEA being more widely used in industry and FEM in academia.

FEM is one of the most widely used methods at Kot Engenharia since it was founded 27 years ago. FEA applications can be by deformation (linear, non-linear), by loading (static, dynamic), by area (structures, thermal, fluids) or with a focus on specific failure behaviors (buckling, mechanical fatigue, etc.).

In order to use the methodology, it is essential to have the best and most appropriate tools on the market, and a trained technical team, in which the professionals have solid knowledge of the disciplines involved in the analysis and know how to use mathematics to solve engineering problems. Regardless of whether the demand is for FEM or FEA, or whether the final application is within Civil Engineering or Mechanics, Kot stands out in the national and international market by offering high-level engineering services to large companies.

Kot Engenharia has the experience and resources necessary to define the best methodology to help with structural checks for your business. Contact our team for more information!

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References

[1] Siemens. Análises de Elementos Finitos (FEA). Disponível em: <https://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/global/pt/our-story/glossary/finite-element-analysis-fea/13173>. Acesso em: 20 de Outubro de 2020. 

[2] Simscale. Finite Element Method – What Is It? FEM and FEA Explained. Disponível em: <https://www.simscale.com/blog/2016/10/what-is-finite-element-method/>. Acesso em: 03 de Dezembro de 2020. 

[3] IEEE. Innovation at work. How the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Work Together. Disponível em: <https://innovationatwork.ieee.org/how-the-finite-element-method-fem-and-finite-element-analysis-fea-work-together/>. Acesso em: 03 de Dezembro de 2020. 

[4] Autodesk. FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS SOFTWARE (FEA SOFTWARE). Disponível em: <https://www.autodesk.com/solutions/finite-element-analysis?geoNavigationPreferredSite=US>. Acesso em: 07 de Dezembro de 2020. 

[5] Altair University.Practical Aspects of Finite Element Analysis. (2019)