Finite Element–Based Design and Stress Evaluation of a Pressure Vessel as per ASME BPVC

Abstract- Pressure vessels are important equipment used for storing and handling fluids under
pressure in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and LPG storage. Because these vessels
often contain hazardous materials, their design must ensure safe and reliable operation under different
working conditions. In the present study, a vertical pressure vessel was designed based on the
guidelines of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII. A 3D model of the vessel was prepared
and analyzed using ANSYS Workbench and SolidWorks Simulation software. Finite element analysis was
carried out to examine stress distribution, deformation, and thermal effects produced during operation.
The material properties used in the analysis include yield strength of 232 MPa and a Poisson’s ratios of
0.3. These properties are applied during the simulation to determine stress distribution, deformation,
and structural safety of the pressure vessel. The results indicated that the nozzle-to-shell junction and
manway regions experienced higher stress concentration compared to other parts of the vessel. To
improve the structural performance, a reinforcement pad was introduced around the nozzle area, which
helped in reducing localized stresses and improving load transfer. The FEA results were then compared
with analytical calculations, and both showed good agreement. The study confirms that the use of ASME
design standards together with finite element analysis provides an effective approach for developing
safe, durable, and cost-efficient pressure vessel designs.