Dynamic Analysis of a NiTi Rotary File by Using Finite Element Analysis: Effect of Cross-Section and Pitch Length

Abstract

This study assessed stress distribution, maximum stress values and fatigue life of experimentally designed NiTi rotary files with different cross-sectional geometry and pitch length using finite element analysis (FEA). Four cross-sectional shapes (Convex triangle, S-shaped, Triple helix and Concave triangle) and two pitch lengths (2 mm and 3 mm) were tested in simulated root canals with curvatures of 30 degrees, 45 degrees and 60 degrees. The FEA results indicated that convex triangle and triple helix geometries exhibited lower stress values compared to the S-shaped and concave triangle designs. Increasing the canal curvature angle resulted in higher stress values, with the S-shaped instrument showing the most significant increase (up to 12%). Instruments with shorter pitch lengths showed more even stress distribution enhancing fatigue life. The maximum stress was concentrated 5-8 mm from the tip, varying across cutting edges, with S-shaped sections experiencing the lowest forces but higher stress due to lower moments of inertia.