Study of the strength of the welded structure "industrial gas meter" under loading with internal static pressure in the APM FEM software package

Purpose.of reseach is to identify zones of greatest stress under the action of internal static pressure, assess the limit states of the structure, and check its compliance with strength criteria.

Methods. This article uses the finite element calculation of a welded structure of an industrial gas meter in the APM FEM software package for KOMPAS-3D v23.0.0.8. The structure was modeled in the KOMPAS V23 program, the welds of the structure according to GOST 16037-80-C17-ZP and GOST 16037-80-U19-ZP were modeled using the "Permanent Joints" application. In places where welds are located, the transformation of welds into a body was applied to take them into account when generating a finite element mesh.

Results. Based on the analysis, it can be stated that the structure has a high margin of safety and rigidity under both standard and forced loads. The permissible values of displacements and safety factors confirm its reliability and operability under real operating conditions, including test modes. Thus, the structure can be recommended for manufacturing and subsequent testing without the need to make changes to its geometry or welding method.

Conclusion. The numerical strength analysis of the welded structure of an industrial gas meter housing, performed using the APM FEM module for KOMPAS-3D, confirmed the structural integrity under all pressure conditions, including test pressure up to 30 N/mm². The obtained von Mises stress values and safety factors meet the requirements of applicable regulatory standards, including GOST 34233.1–2017 and PB 03-576–03. The total displacements remain within acceptable limits, indicating high stiffness and the absence of plastic deformation risks during operation.

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