NozzlePro 2021 – Software Introduction

PRG Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software NozzlePRO v15.0

PRG Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software NozzlePRO v15.0

NozzlePro 2021 is a legacy version of the software. The following introduction reflects its features and purpose at the time of its release.

Overview
NozzlePro 2021 is a specialized engineering software developed by Intergraph (now part of Hexagon PPM) for the design, analysis, and evaluation of pressure vessel and piping nozzles in accordance with international codes and standards—primarily ASME Section VIII, Divisions 1 & 2, WRC 107/537, and API 650. It is widely used in the oil & gas, petrochemical, power generation, and process industries.

Key Features of NozzlePro 2021:

Code Compliance
- Performs stress and strength calculations per:
  - ASME Section VIII, Division 1 (Appendix 1-7, UG-37, etc.)
  - ASME Section VIII, Division 2 (Part 4 & Part 5)
  - WRC Bulletin 107 and WRC 537 (for local stress analysis)
  - API 650 (for aboveground storage tanks)
Integrated Design Workflow
- Streamlines nozzle design from concept to approval.
- Supports both reinforced and unreinforced nozzle configurations.
- Handles radial, inclined, and tangential nozzle orientations.
Advanced Analysis Capabilities
- Calculates required reinforcement area using area replacement method.
- Evaluates external loads (moment, force, torsion, etc.) from piping or thermal expansion.
- Provides pass/fail results with detailed margins of safety.
User-Friendly Interface
- Intuitive input forms and graphical representations of nozzle geometry.
- Real-time validation of inputs against code rules.
- Customizable templates for recurring designs.
Reporting & Documentation
- Generates comprehensive calculation reports in PDF or printed format.
- Includes all input data, code clauses referenced, intermediate results, and conclusions.
- Supports electronic sign-off and audit trails.
Integration with Smart 3D
- Seamless interoperability with Hexagon Smart 3D, allowing engineers to validate nozzles directly within the 3D plant design environment.
- Reduces design rework and improves data consistency across disciplines.

Typical Use Cases:

Validating nozzle reinforcement on pressure vessels during detailed engineering.
Assessing local stresses at nozzle-vessel intersections under operational loads.
Supporting mechanical integrity reviews for existing equipment modifications.
Preparing code-compliant documentation for regulatory or client submission.

System Requirements (as of 2021):

OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
RAM: 8 GB minimum (16 GB recommended)
Processor: Intel® Core™ i5 or equivalent
Dependencies: .NET Framework 4.8, Microsoft SQL Server (for Smart 3D integration)

Note on Current Status:
While NozzlePro 2021 was a robust release in its time, Hexagon has since released newer versions (e.g., NozzlePro 2022, 2023, and beyond) with enhanced capabilities, including improved WRC 537 support, better integration with cloud platforms, and updated code compliance (e.g., ASME 2023 editions). Users are encouraged to evaluate the latest version for optimal performance and regulatory alignment.

New Features for PRG 2021