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For further details and to book your place, please visit the event website.
Please could you briefly explain your role, involvement, and experience with regards to Structural Integrity and the Reducing Conservatism in Structural Integrity seminar?
Paul Shard (PS): I am a Principal Engineer and a Delivery Director at EASL, A Kinectrics company. My role has centred around structural integrity assessment for over 30 years. I've been involved in various aspects, including finite element analysis of civil engineering structures and components, fracture and creep assessment of pressure vessels and piping, seismic analysis, and design code assessments.
At the Reducing Conservatism in Structural Integrity seminar, I'm presenting on Defect Characterisation. My experience in utilising advanced analysis tools like ABAQUS, ANSYS, and NASTRAN, as well as my involvement in key projects like the seismic analysis of various power stations, submarine nuclear components, and reactor plant structures, positions me well to contribute to discussions on reducing conservatism in structural integrity.
What, in your experience, has been the biggest roadblock for utilising new procedures and approaches in your sector?
PS: Over the years, I've noticed that the engineering industry often maintains a strong attachment to well-established methodologies and codes. These conventional approaches, while tried and tested, might not encompass the most recent technological advancements. Embracing new procedures necessitates a change in mindset, a revision of guidelines, and the establishment of the credibility and safety of these innovative techniques to gain wider acceptance within the industry.
What key topics are you excited to discuss at this year's conference?
PS: I'm particularly excited to discuss approaches that challenge conservative assumptions in structural integrity assessment. Exploring methods to accurately characterise defects, incorporating advanced materials and nonlinear behaviours, and addressing common issues will be important areas of focus. Additionally, the integration of innovative software tools and the application of risk-based methodologies are topics I'm looking forward to.
What would you say are the technologies or applications to watch for the future?
PS: Looking ahead, there are exciting progressions in how we assess structural integrity. I'm excited about the ongoing growth of machine learning and artificial intelligence for predicting issues and spotting anomalies. Also, I keep an eye out for real-time data from non-destructive testing methods that show how structures are doing, and with the combination of digital twins and IoT tech, we could gain even deeper insights into how structures behave over time.
Who else are you most interested in hearing from on the programme?
PS: I'm eager to learn from those who are expanding the horizons of structural integrity assessment. Professionals skilled in advanced numerical modelling and material science, along with those who've effectively used risk-based methods, can offer valuable insights. I'm also looking forward to hearing from individuals who've smoothly shifted from traditional methods to more modern and creative ones, as that could provide practical viewpoints.
Why is it important for engineers to join this conference?
PS: This conference offers a unique platform for engineers to collaborate, share experiences, and explore new frontiers in structural integrity assessment. In our rapidly evolving field, staying updated with the latest procedures, technologies, and best practices is essential. Engaging in such events raises cross-industry learning and accelerates the adoption of new approaches, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient engineering practices.
The Reducing Conservatism in Structural Integrity seminar will take place on 21 November 2023 in Manchester.
Don't miss our upcoming seminar on Reducing Conservatism in Structural Integrity.
Dive into the future of industrial applications as we unveil groundbreaking approaches to tackle fracture mechanic challenges. In an ever-evolving research landscape, the difficulty to adopt novel methodologies due to cost and knowledge gaps is a constant challenge.
This event bridges the gap between academic innovation and industry implementation, providing a platform to network and address the key challenges.
For further details and to book your place, please visit the event website.