FEA Case Study
Structural Assessment of Industrial Processing Facility Framework
Overview
Murcott Energy Ltd. conducted a detailed structural assessment of a completed framework of an industrial processing facility.
The structure supports various machinery, including vibrating screens, feeders, and conveyor systems. The analysis aimed to evaluate the building’s capacity to withstand operational loads and to ensure compliance with Eurocode 3 standards for steel structures.
Application
The framework is essential for securing heavy machinery and ensuring the operational efficiency of the processing plant. The structural components, including beams, bolts, and plates, were carefully assessed to guarantee durability, stability, and safety under both static and dynamic loads.
Analysis Objectives
Simulating operational load cases, including gravitational, machinery and access platform loads.
Performing linear elastic analysis using NASTRAN FEA software to simulate stress and deformation.
Verifying structural integrity and compliance with Eurocode 3 standards for steel structures
Identifying areas of high stress and assessing the safety of bolts under various load conditions.
Capabilities Employed
Murcott Energy applied its advanced engineering capabilities:
Static and Dynamic Load Simulation
Stress and Deformation Analysis
Bolt Load Verification
Comprehensive Model
Results and
Benefits
• Stress Distribution: The analysis revealed the stress distribution across various components of the framework and supporting assemblies. Von-Mises stress plots were generated for assemblies and sub-assemblies, identifying critical stress concentrations. However, the analysis highlighted that the stress levels for certain components exceeded acceptable limits, suggesting modifications were needed.
• Deformation Control:Deformation plots indicated that, in most cases, displacements remained within acceptable limits, ensuring overall structural stability.
• Bolt Load Concerns: Bolt load calculations confirmed that the bolt integrity was compromised under certain load conditions, with some bolt loads deemed unacceptable.
• Modifications for Safety: Based on the findings, we recommended specific modifications to address the unacceptable stress levels and bolt loads. These changes were designed to improve structural integrity and ensure safety under operational conditions.
Outcome and Client Confidence
By identifying and addressing these issues, Murcott Energy provided the client with clear and actionable recommendations to resolve the structural shortcomings. Our analysis and recommendations empowered the client to implement necessary modifications, which not only rectified the problems but also instilled confidence in the reliability and safety of the structure moving forward. The successful completion of this project reinforced Murcott Energy’s role as a trusted partner in delivering high-quality engineering solutions.
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