| Where relevant design and fabrication
codes exist, provided all code requirements are met, the structure is likely to
be safe. However, if there are no relevant design codes, or code requirements
with respect to the design, materials or service conditions are not met fully,
then a different approach has to be taken. |
An alternative approach is based on
fitness-for-purpose principles, and considers that a component is acceptable
provided the conditions for failure are not reached in the service lifetime.
|
| A
number of possible failure mechanisms have to be considered,
including: |
| |
|
 |
Fracture |
|
| |
|
|
Fatigue |
| |
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Creep |
| |
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Plastic collapse |
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Pressure Vessel FE
Model |
Eatec's staff have significant experience
in the field of structural integrity assessments, with projects having been
performed for companies in power, process, defence and other industries. The
projects have ranged from concept studies, through design and life extension
assessments, to the identification of solutions for in-service problems.
|
Assessments are performed using the most
appropriate technique, either recommended by Eatec or specified by the client.
The approach could involve the use of a recognised assessment method, or the
development of a bespoke solution.
|
| For a reliable assessment, loadings and
boundary conditions must be known with the appropriate degree of confidence.
Where required, Eatec can undertake Testing to establish
these for subsequent use in the assessment. |
