Hi, I was wondering what the difference was between different set data types, and how their functionalities are different? Why should I use one over the other? Why should I not use a certain set?
Good question.
Part sets are most useful for large contacts, single_surface or surface to surface, and *Contact_interior. Contact interior is something that I highly suggest using for soft 3D parts. It helps prevent elements from negative volumes. They are also used for more gadget-type functions like Airbags (which can also use segment sets).
Node sets are rarely used for traditional contacts, but are useful in tied contacts. They are also used to "drive" the motion of a simulation using *Initial_Velocity. They are also useful in outputs like secforc, and nodal kinematics. Constrained nodal rigid bodies (CNRB) use rigidly constrain a node set to each other and can be very useful in model setup.
Segment sets can be used in just about every type of contact. Generally, they are more accurate than using parts in contacts, but this also comes down to settings in the contacts. Segment sets can be created on the face of any type of element (2D or 3D) which makes them very useful when working with contacts between 3D parts. But you need to make sure that you only create the segment sets along the face of the 3D shape using the propagation tool in the selection box. Segment sets are also used in tied contacts.
Shell sets are similar to segment sets (almost the same actually) but can only be applied to 2D parts.
Solid sets are what they sound like, sets of solid elements. These are used in secforc. I'm honestly not familiar with any other application for them.
Beam sets are just sets of beams and can be used in specific 1D beam contacts.