DesignCalcs logo

DesignCalcs

by CEI · Since 1986
No reviews yet
ActiveAvailable globallyCloud
Quick facts
VendorCEI
Year launched1986
StatusActive
LocationKansas City, MO 64141, US
Countries servedGlobal
Languages2
Integrations
Free tier
Free trial
Contact salesYES

About DesignCalcs

DesignCalcs is a pressure vessel design software from CEI that helps ensure compliance with ASME Sec VIII, Div 1. It provides access to ASME BPVC Sec II materials, WRC-107 stress analysis, and software updates so engineers can efficiently create accurate designs. The platform supports a user-friendly interface and offers detailed reporting for design validation. With DesignCalcs, users can simplify their design process while maintaining adherence to industry standards. Key capabilities: ASME compliance checking material selection stress analysis detailed reporting software updates Best for: engineers and designers who need to create compliant pressure vessel designs efficiently.

Designcalcs by CEI is a robust and highly specialized tool for engineers who require fast, accurate, and fully code-compliant pressure vessel and heat exchanger design according to ASME Section VIII, Division 1. Its primary value lies in its unwavering adherence to code rules and its comprehensive, built-in material and component libraries, which dramatically reduce manual effort and error. The seamless, native integration with NozzlePRO for advanced FEA is a significant advantage, allowing engineers to transition instantly between code calculations and detailed stress analysis. While the cost is at the higher end and its primary code focus is ASME (requiring other software for Euro codes), its efficiency in generating audit-ready, code-stamped reports and its flexible deployment options make it a top-tier solution for professional fabricators and engineering firms globally.

Pros & Cons

What users like
  • +Offers both Cloud and On-premise options
  • +Allows very fast design iterations and quoting
  • +Comprehensive, updated internal databases for materials, flanges, and fittings
  • +Highly reliable for meeting ASME Section VIII, Div 1 requirements
What users flag
  • Advanced, complex stress analysis requires the purchase of the integrated NozzlePRO software
  • Requires solid fundamental knowledge of ASME code rules and engineering to be used effectively
  • The design flow is primarily focused on rule-based calculations

Features

Key features

ASME Code Compliance (Section VIII Div 1)
Automates the complex calculations for pressure vessel components to ensure strict adherence to the latest editions of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Section VIII, Division 1. This is the primary function, critical for regulatory approval and safety.
Quick Vessel Wizard
A streamlined tool that allows users to rapidly prototype and build a complete vessel model in a matter of seconds. Significantly speeds up the initial design and quotation process.
Extensive Component Modeling
Allows rapid design and analysis of common vessel components, including shells, heads (elliptical, hemispherical, F&D), nozzles, and flanges. Built for rapidly iterating and sizing individual parts.
WRC-107/537 Stress Analysis
Provides a local stress analysis capability based on the Welding Research Council (WRC) bulletins for loads applied to nozzles and attachments on shells. Essential for evaluating localized stresses where standard code calculations are insufficient.
Built-in Data Libraries
Includes extensive, up-to-date databases for ASME Section II materials, standard fittings (ASME B16.5/47), and pipe charts (ASME B36.10M). Eliminates manual lookup and ensures the use of correct, code-compliant properties.
Load Calculations (Wind/Seismic)
Incorporates calculations for external loads from multiple international wind and seismic codes (e.g., ASCE 7), which are necessary for the structural design of supports (saddles, skirts, legs). Ensures the vessel structure can withstand site-specific environmental forces.
Industry-Accepted Reports
Generates comprehensive design calculation reports that include the actual code formulas, calculations, and code references, ready for submission to authorized inspectors. Ensures audit-readiness and clarity for regulatory review.

Additional features

Vacuum/External Pressure Check
Performs calculations to verify the vessel's structural integrity under external pressure (vacuum) conditions. A critical safety check for all pressure vessels.
Heat Exchanger Design
Includes specific functionality for the mechanical design of shell-and-tube heat exchangers and their internal components (e.g., Tubes, Tubesheets, Channel Components). Expands the tool's utility beyond standard pressure vessels.
Advanced Support Design
Dedicated modules for designing and checking all common support types: Saddles, Skirts, Legs, Support Rings, and Lifting Lugs. Covers the full structural design of the vessel assembly.
DesignDocs/FormPro Integration
Provides access to official ASME forms like U, R, A, P, H, and NB136 via an add-on or sister product. Streamlines the final fabrication documentation process.
Custom Calculation Support
Allows for supplemental custom calculations to be included, accommodating specific user or client requirements outside of the standard code. Provides necessary flexibility for non-standard designs.
MDMT/Misc. Analysis
Tools for determining the Minimum Design Metal Temperature (MDMT) and other miscellaneous code requirements. Ensures material selection and operation align with thermal requirements.
Multi-Factor Authentication & Geofencing
New security features to protect user data and software access. Enhances data security, particularly for cloud deployments.
3D Export (SolidWorks/Inventor)
Provides the ability to export the vessel design for use in popular 3D modeling and detailing software like SOLIDWORKS and Autodesk Inventor. Facilitates the creation of fabrication drawings and CAD-based analysis.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
Request a quote
Promo Offer

Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
2
Interface languages
1
Billing currencies

Interface languages

EnglishPortugese

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD

No reviews yet

Be the first to drop a review

Alternatives to DesignCalcs

ETAP logo

ETAP

ETAP is a power system analysis software platform from Schneider Electric that provides tools for…

Midas Civil logo

Midas Civil

Midas Civil is a civil engineering software from MIDAS that supports structural analysis and design.…

Often compared with DesignCalcs

Compare any two tools →
ETAP logo
ETAP
Engineering Computer-Aided Design
0.0
Midas Civil logo
Midas Civil
Engineering Computer-Aided Design
0.0