All simulation examples
Illustrative study — supplied sample content. The scenario, simulation visuals and numerical results below are examples supplied for this website. They are not independently verified IMBEST project results, client endorsements or performance guarantees. Method, feasibility and delivery scope must be confirmed for each enquiry.
Thermal-Structural FEA for a Pressure Vessel Nozzle
Justifying a new process connection on an existing vessel under combined pressure and thermal cycling without a re-rate.
01 — ChallengeNew nozzle required verification without a vessel re-rate
A client needed to add a new process connection to an existing pressure vessel and required verification against ASME Section VIII, Division 2 under combined pressure and thermal transient loading — without triggering a full vessel re-rate.
02 — ApproachCoupled thermal-structural analysis at the nozzle
A coupled thermal-structural model captured transient thermal cycling from startup and shutdown combined with sustained pressure and piping reaction loads at the nozzle-to-shell junction.
03 — Simulation ResultStress intensity at the nozzle-to-shell junction
Stress intensity at the nozzle-to-shell junctionFig. 1 of 1
04 — Quantified ResultsBefore / After
| Parameter | Baseline | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak stress intensity vs. allowable | 112% (original pad) | → | 79% (redesigned pad) |
| Allowable cycles (ASME VIII-2 Annex 5) | not yet qualified | → | >15,000 cycles |
| Design duty cycle (20-year life) | at risk | → | met with margin |
05 — Business Impact
Enabled the modification to proceed without vessel replacement, saving an estimated 8 weeks of fabrication lead time.