Topic: Modelling of very thin steel plate

Can plate elements be used to model very thin steel plates of edge aspect ratio 550:1 (approx)? If not could you suggest any other possible ways of modelling this?

Re: Modelling of very thin steel plate

Yes, shell elements are recommended for situations like this- see ATENA Engineering 3D User's Manual, 3.7.2.2.7 Shell Macroelements or ATENA-GiD User's, 5.3.2 Shell Material (depending on which ATENA GUE you work with).
In some cases, it may also make sense to use membrane elements.
If you seek advice on modelling your particular setup, please send us sketches+description (Troubleshooting, 2.1.1).