Development of a web-based interface for the automatic finite element analysis of pressure vessels

The Internet presents an opportunity to facilitate the design of pressure equipment in a new and different way. Current industrial design practice employs computer programmes that perform design-by-formula (DBF) calculations in accordance with ASME VIII Division 1 or other international codes and standards. Design-by-analysis (DBA), however is only undertaken by experienced vessel engineers or general finite element analysis (FEA) consultancy specialists. The present work has established an interface between the Internet and a commercial FEA program for use by designers in the pressure vessel industry. The interface allows users to input variables for a pre-delivered model, obtained from a library of verified models, which may be analysed automatically and the results returned for review. The outcome of the work has been that an interface has been fully established in the form of an interactive dynamically operating web site. It has extensive error checking facilities for user input variables, and is fully operational for the available models, which, for example, includes a reinforced nozzle located in an elliptical end with multiple loadings. The system has been tested by industry and new opportunities have resulted for the training of engineers by allowing access to complex models only after suitable training has been undertaken and levels of competence have been achieved.