Four Engineering Problems Solved by the Boundary Element Method

Carlos Friedrich Loeffler¹ and Thiago Galdino Balista^1,

¹Mechanical Engineering Post-Graduate Program, Federal University of Espírito Santo, UFES, CT, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 540-Bairro Goiabeiras, 29075-910, Vitória, ES, Brazil

Cite this paper:
Carlos Friedrich Loeffler and Thiago Galdino Balista. Four Engineering Problems Solved by the Boundary Element Method. American Journal of Mechanical Engineering. 2026; 14(2):30-37. doi: 10.12691/ajme-14-2-1

Abstract

Nowadays, the numerical solution of engineering problems is a common and indispensable procedure, given the complexity and ambitious nature of production and design requirements. In this context, methods derived from computational mechanics have emerged, involving discrete mathematical models of broad scope and generality. Among these, the Boundary Element Method (BEM) stands out from similar numerical techniques due to distinctive characteristics – most notably, the requirement to represent only the boundary of the problem being solved. However, the applicability of BEM compared with other methods remains somewhat limited, despite recognized advantages such as high accuracy, suitability for problems involving moving boundaries, and simple mesh generation. The limited number of published examples of industrial problems solved using BEM may be one factor hindering its more widespread adoption across various engineering sectors. This paper aims to present four practical applications in which BEM provided robust and successful solutions, thereby promoting its greater acceptance within technical and industrial circles.

Keywords:
Numerical methods boundary element method non-homogeneous acoustic wave problems

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