Competence at work for service and innovation

Finite element analysis

FEA followed by postprocessing with fatigue analysis
are mandatory for safe machine operation

FEM analysis (FEA) is a great tool extensively used in Virtual Prototyping enabling design engineers to size and shape every machine component. For components subject to static stresses, it is normally sufficient a good elastic FEM analysis. For components subject to fluctuating stresses, such as those of the reciprocating compressors, it is often necessary to go deeper and make an elastic-plastic FEM analysis followed by a fatigue analysis through a dedicated post-processing software.
CST is equipped by the most advanced FEA and fatigue analysis software, it has grown a group of engineers, developed great collaborations with universities specialized in this technology, also producing many scientific articles for international congresses and technical magazines.

Some examples of FEM analysis:

RECIPROCATING COMPRESSOR:
CONROD FEA

The tie-bolts of connecting rods and their relevant contact areas with shank are the most stressed points of reciprocating compressor and engines. A normal FEA is not sufficient to accurately design these parts. CST designs these components within an elastic-plastic stress analysis, which results are then post-processed for evaluatìon of the fatigue safety coefficient.

RECIPROCATING COMPRESSOR: FEA OF THE PISTON ROD TO CROSSHEAD CONNECTION

The connection between piston rod and crosshead is one of the most stressed points of reciprocating compressors. CST designs this threaded connection by the aid of an elastic-plastic stress analysis whose results are post-processed for evaluation of the fatigue safety coefficient.

CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR:
TOXIC GAS LEAKAGE PROBLEM SOLVED WITH FEA OF CASING

A lack of contact pressure between the two halves of the horizontally split compressor caused serious problems of toxic gas leakage. An accurate FEA allowed the restoration of an adequate contact pressure in the critical zones, guarenteeing the complete avoidance of dangerous leakages solving the problem experienced by the customer.