This thesis analyzes the utility of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in testing strength trends in T... more This thesis analyzes the utility of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in testing strength trends in Type A, Ci, Dii, F, and G swords described by the Sandars Bronze Age Aegean classification. Comparing sword composition of a variety of alloys and using three-dimensional models of each sword type, I evaluate the strength and resilience of each sword shape form in thrusting and hacking impact and shearing under a series of force intervals. The results of these tests suggest that there is performance variability between the sword types and that the sword forms generally correlate with an increase in strength over time. Furthermore, the tests suggest that the alloy and temper of the sword have a significant impact on the sword’s strength. This indicates that a sword’s form was based on more than mere prestige and had clear functional characteristics. Further testing on alloy and temper type use over time is necessary.
This thesis analyzes the utility of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in testing strength trends in T... more This thesis analyzes the utility of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in testing strength trends in Type A, Ci, Dii, F, and G swords described by the Sandars Bronze Age Aegean classification. Comparing sword composition of a variety of alloys and using three-dimensional models of each sword type, I evaluate the strength and resilience of each sword shape form in thrusting and hacking impact and shearing under a series of force intervals. The results of these tests suggest that there is performance variability between the sword types and that the sword forms generally correlate with an increase in strength over time. Furthermore, the tests suggest that the alloy and temper of the sword have a significant impact on the sword’s strength. This indicates that a sword’s form was based on more than mere prestige and had clear functional characteristics. Further testing on alloy and temper type use over time is necessary.
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