Abstract: When FEM is utilized to simulate the quenching process of the workpiece and realize the coupled calculation of the temperature field and phase transformation, due to the effect of the complex shape, non-linear physical parameters and the latent heat during phase transformation, the element selection should be done cautiously so that end results can meet the actual situations. In this paper through comparing the different type and density of elements, the eight-node, hexahedral, isoparametric element is found to be a good choice. Using this kind of element can not only meets the need of calculating accuracy, but also cut down the calculating magnitude and takes full advantage of the hardware source. In addition, the effect of distorted elements on the calculation result has also been discussed in this paper.

Key words: FEM, computer simulation, quenching