Finite Element Analysis (FEA) plays a crucial role in the design and testing phase of pressure vessels, enabling engineers to simulate and analyze various performance aspects such as stress, deflection, and safety factors. By using FEA, the performance of a pressure vessel can be predicted under various working conditions.
The primary purpose of an FEA static structure stress analysis on a pressure vessel model is to predict the distribution of stresses and deflections in the vessel under applied loads or pressure. In the case of pressure vessels, these applied loads are usually internal pressures, external pressures, thermal loads, etc. The FEA provides a numerical solution to these parameters, which aids in assessing the structural integrity and safety of the vessel.
Furthermore, the safety factor is an essential parameter for a pressure vessel, which can be computed from the stress analysis results. The safety factor helps ensure that the vessel can withstand pressures above its designed limit, adding a margin of safety to the design.
Following the FEA static structure stress analysis, the results are then used to optimize the pressure vessel design. Design optimization includes alteration of material selection, wall thickness, geometry, and other design variables to enhance performance, increase safety factors, and ensure compliance with regulations and codes. In the optimization process, the target is often to reduce material usage and cost while maintaining or enhancing the structural performance and safety of the vessel.
Thus, by utilizing FEA, engineers can ensure that the pressure vessel will perform reliably under operating conditions, while also optimizing the design to enhance performance and safety and reduce cost.
Contact Us if you would like to run FEA on any pressure vessel projects.