First order explicit time integration scheme with large time steps for parabolic problems using irregular grids

Abstract We present a fast first order explicit time integration scheme for solving parabolic problems in mechanics via standard numerical methods in space using irregular grids, such as unstructured finite element meshes, or grids containing elements or cells of very different sizes. The new scheme extends one of the explicit FIC-Time (EFT) integration methods derived by the authors in [23] that allow considerable larger time steps than the forward-Euler (FE) scheme. The new EFT scheme overcomes the limitations in the time step size of explicit time integration schemes for irregular grids containing large and small elements. A variable time step is used for eliminating the oscillations near Dirichlet boundaries when large time steps are used. The advantages of the new EFT scheme versus the FE scheme are shown in one-, two- and three-dimensional transient heat conduction problems using irregular finite element grids.