What are the reasons for abnormal deformations during material non-linear analysis?

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Answer:

The abnormal deformation are mainly because, the non linear analysis is not converging.
Following points are to be checked when it involves complex meshing.

1) Every time , when involved in models with complex meshing , one can run a simple modal analysis to check for any abnormal mode shape and correct the model appropriately.

In the model attached, it appears from the mode shapes that , deck plate which is cantilevered deforms beyond tolerance and hence hindering convergence.




So you might provide appropriate support condition at this location or delete this portion which I have in the attached model to ensure convergence.






2) For the given loading, the displacement is very large when compared to the dimensions of the plates.
Hence Geometric non linear analysis as well would be required. Or alternatively you may apply the loads on cross beams rather that directly applying on decks plates to avoid huge deflections.




3) The load has been divided into 2 load steps so as to get an idea at what load the yield begins.
For the given yield stress, as can be observed from the convergence criteria , the yielding for member begins at step 1, implying even for the half of the total load applied, the members begins to yield.




4) The Plastic material property used is "von mises" without hardening.
Now, when a load as huge as 18t /m^2 (approx.) is applied on the deck plate of 9mm, it would definitely yield.
Here, since the hardening property is not considered, once the yield strength is attained, the material strains beyond the yield strength abnormally.
On the other hand, when you take advance of the hardening property, you may get gradual increase in strain with respect to stress and hence convergence would be possible.

5) Apart from above, one may try to increase the tolerance for convergence, however accuracy might be compromised.

Based on the above solution we have modified the model. The hardening property considered is approximate, you may choose an appropriate value.