FEA of a Pressure Vessel
Context, methodology and results of the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) carried out on a pressure vessel, focusing specifically on the nozzle-vessel intersection due to the complexity of calculating its stress values analytically.
A quarter symmetry Finite Element Model (FEM) with nozzle length of 150mm was constructed using quadratic quadrilateral axisymmetric elements.
The model was validated against the analytical Lamé solution for a thick-walled cylinder which confirmed its high accuracy.
Mesh convergence studies were carried out both globally and locally within the region of interest to ensure computational efficiency without compromising accuracy to create a model of 4000 elements.
Stress results at the region of interest are provided in both tabulated and plot formats (as specified by the client) and show a transition from tensile to compressive for radial, axial and circumferential stresses, and negative to positive for shear stresses through Section “AA” towards the vessel exterior.
Achieved a grade of 75
Reports to the training exercises building up to the Master's report on FEA of a pressure vessel:
Thick-walled cylinder subjected to internal pressure
Achieved a grade of 85
Changing the mesh attributes for the plate with the circular hole
Achieved a grade of 95
Displacements and stresses for a plate with a circular hole under uniaxial tension
Achieved a grade of 87
Displacement of a frame under point loading
Achieved a grade of 90