This error usually occurs when the model has rigid body motions. Make sure the model is properly constrained.

you're getting error in the first increment itself. check .msg file to know what's causing this error. excessive distortion of element can be triggered by several factors

There are a lot possible reason for that. I think

Incorrect Element Type:

If the part is considered solid but behaves improperly, you might have assigned the wrong element type. For example, using a shell or beam element for a solid part.

2. Incompatible Material Properties:

The material properties (e.g., density, modulus of elasticity) might not match the solid part's behavior.

3. Geometry Definition Errors:

The geometry might have issues such as overlapping regions, gaps, or misaligned surfaces, which can cause meshing or analysis issues.

4. Meshing Problems:

The mesh might not be fine enough or has poor quality (e.g., highly distorted elements).

5. Boundary Conditions or Constraints:

Improperly applied boundary conditions or constraints can cause the part to behave in unexpected ways.

6. Incorrect Assembly:

If you are working with an assembly, parts might not be properly joined or interacting (e.g., missing tie constraints or contact definitions).

7. Loads and Interactions:

Misapplied loads or interactions could cause incorrect deformations or stresses.

Solutions:

1. Verify Element Type:

Check the element type in the part/section assignment and ensure it is suitable for a solid part (e.g., C3D8, C3D10).

2. Review Material Properties:

Double-check the assigned material properties for accuracy. Ensure all necessary parameters are defined.

3. Inspect Geometry:

Use the Geometry Repair tool in Abaqus/CAE to detect and fix potential issues in the part's geometry.

4. Improve Mesh Quality:

Refine the mesh in critical areas or use meshing controls to improve element quality.

Check for distorted elements using the mesh diagnostics tool.

5. Check Boundary Conditions and Constraints:

Ensure all boundary conditions and constraints are applied correctly and do not over-constrain the model.

6. Validate Assembly:

Confirm that all parts in the assembly are properly connected, either through merging, tie constraints, or contact definitions.

7. Debug Loads and Interactions:

Review load application points and interaction definitions to ensure they are appropriate for the solid part.

8. Run a Simplified Model:

Create a simplified version of your model to isolate the problem part and analyze it separately.

9. Check Solver Logs:

Review the .msg file or simulation output for warnings or errors that might indicate where the issue lies.