Finite Element Model Design: Elevating Safety Through Finite Element Analysis in Demolition

Project Background
In addressing the challenge of lifting idle equipment during the Demolition phase in units 016 and 019 of RU IV Cilacap, the team faced the additional complexity of a 30″ flare line connected to the existing flare header without isolation capability. The solution involved hot tapping for stopple
plug installation, adding block valves, and modifying it into a dead-end flange.

Methodology and Approach

  1. Conducted Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge inspections for actual wall thickness data.
  2. Executed pipe stress analysis and design engineering for the modified flare line.
  3. Designed split tee or reinforcement pad, block valve requirements, and performed
    structural analysis for piperack.

Challenges
During thickness inspections at elevated locations, safety measures such as
body harnesses were crucial to ensure data accuracy and team safety.

Outcome:

  1. Successfully designed and analyzed the safe lifting of 16 equipment, considering time
    and cost.
  2. Enhanced client confidence in executing the safe lifting process.

Key Messages
Highlighting the team’s ability to design with a focus on safety, time
efficiency, and cost-effectiveness across various domains, including structure,
piping, and pipelines, in alignment with industry standards and codes.

Written by

Padla Abdul Basyir

Padla Abdul Basyir

Finite Element Analysis Engineer