Verification According to the FKM Guideline – Assessing Strength in Compliance with Standards

In addition to the purely simulated loading of a component, many projects require a formal, standard-compliant assessment of the permissible strength. The FKM Guideline provides an established procedure for evaluating the existing stresses and load quantities and comparing them with a clearly defined safety criterion.

The FKM verification thus supplements the results of FEM calculations with a binding statement on the permissible loading – including a clear utilization factor that shows whether a design can be operated safely or whether structural modifications are required.

• Computational strength verification according to the FKM Guideline
  We assess whether the determined stresses comply with the permissible loading limits defined by the FKM Guideline and whether the component is dimensioned in accordance with the standard.
• Static strength verification
  We examine whether the component strength is sufficient under the intended loads and whether the permissible stresses are not exceeded.
• Fatigue strength verification under cyclic loads
  We evaluate cyclic loading and load sequences to reliably verify durability in accordance with the FKM methodology.
• Weld seam verifications according to FKM
  We assess welded joints, taking into account weld geometry, notch stresses, manufacturing effects and material properties.
• Consideration of actual manufacturing and surface conditions
  Influences such as surface roughness, strain hardening and effective diameter are directly incorporated into the computational assessment.
• Load case superposition and evaluation of load sequences
  We combine different load types and their cyclic sequence in accordance with the FKM specifications and evaluate the resulting loading condition.
• Determination of the utilization factor and recommendations for action
  We determine the standard-compliant utilization factor and show whether adjustments are required to ensure the necessary component safety.