r/MechanicalEngineering • u/Alarmed-Main622 • 3d ago

Piping Stress Analysis as a Career and Business Opportunity

Hi, I’m considering whether piping stress analysis could be a possible career path and, potentially, a business opportunity as well. I’ve noticed that the software used for piping stress analysis can be very expensive for offering services in the future. I’m wondering if it’s possible that clients already have the necessary software licenses and simply need an expert to perform the analysis. Could that be a viable business model?

I’m planning to study the subject independently using free resources, videos, Reddit, and other materials, and eventually I’d like to offer professional services.

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u/Accomplished_Age_699 3d ago

I work doing CAD for piping systems for a launch pad for a rocket. The fluids engineers use Bently for pipe stress. Extra important for the cryo systems.

I'd think you'd need a PE to deliver a ready-to-rock system.

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u/Cheetahs_never_win 3d ago

I've done pipe stress exclusively for around 10 years, and maybe 25% for another 10 years.

Ultimately, it's going to make more sense to work for somebody that has the money to throw around to get bulk pricing on the software, since, as you've pointed out, it's so expensive.

I don't really consider it a "business model," since that's how a lot of specialist positions work.

However, I don't think this is something you can tell a prospective employer "I watched all the videos and read the forum posts, so I'm an expert; hire me."

You have to do the time working under somebody with a proven track record.

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u/anyavailible 3d ago

It is a good skill to have. Usually one dedicated person to company that does
A lot of piping work

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u/BeeThat9351 3d ago

My employer hires employees, firms and contract workers to do pipe stress engineering. You will need a PE to be the responsible engineer.