The computational engine of Irazu simulation software is based on the finite-discrete element method. This inherently means that Irazu is equipped with a finite element solver (FEM). The FEM solver uses linear elastic constitutive laws (isotropic and transversely isotropic) and solves the equations of motion using an explicit time integration scheme. Therefore, it is well … Read more

We are excited to announce that we have been working on the introduction of hydro-mechanical (H-M) coupling in our Irazu FDEM software. The introduction of H-M coupling arguably makes the Irazu software one of the most sophisticated simulation software currently available for geomechanical applications as a multitude of multi-physics processes can be taken into account, … Read more

Following up from our previous blog post on 3D FEMDEM Simulations, 3D simulations of a tunnel excavated in a weak rock (resembling properties of a clay shale) are presented here (E=3.8 GPa, ν=0.25, σt=0.41 MPa, c=5 MPa). In this simplified case study, the entire length of the tunnel was excavated at once at the beginning … Read more

We have been working on a prototype of three-dimensional FDEM. We’ve implemented most of the critical features into the code, including a quasi-static friction law, Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion, and transversely isotropic elastic constitutive law. We’re excited to showcase some of the simulations results here. The figure below shows the simulation of a uniaxial compression test … Read more