AI Generated FEA Results
The era of AI generated FEA results is here!
I like comparing FEA results to closed-form solutions because they help validate each other.
I π₯π¨π―π comparing AI generated FEA results to closed-form solutions because they give me a good laugh.
Thankfully the trend of getting AI generated FEA results through regulators appears to be over. In Canada Annex J of CSA B51 spells out the exact requirements regarding using FEA in equipment design. A couple of effective requirements stand out to me.
J.2) FEA may be used to support equipment design where the configuration is not covered by the available rules.
Many times AI generated FEA is submitted for simple designs already covered by ASME Division 1 and Division 2. This rule prevents FEA-only submissions for simple designs.
J.3) FEA report shall be certified by a Professional Engineer
The entire point of creating AI generated FEA results is to circumvent engineering costs. This rule prevents submissions from unqualified actors putting the public at undue risk.
While your regulatory jurisdiction may not have any requirements regarding the use of FEA, I strongly support considering these two requirements for internal rules. Please be careful when selecting a fly-by-night unlicensed FEA firm with pricing that is too good to be true.
Use Closed-Form Solutions Instead of Bad FEA Calculations
Are you wasting money on bad FEA calculations that wonβt make it past regulators?
I was recently asked to help a client review some calculations that were rejected by a prominent regulator in the industry. After ogling some aesthetically gorgeous FEA pictures I had the same question as the regulator:
βWhy are you using FEA?β
The nozzle geometry was pretty basic. A 12β, set-in, radial nozzle with a reinforcing pad.
Not in cyclic service. No crazy thermal gradients. No external loads. No reason for an FEA only calculation submission.
What should have been a five dollar closed-form solution calculation turned into an expensive FEA nightmare. Please consider using closed-form solutions for designs where the configuration is fully covered by the available ASME rules.