The question simply asked: what software is appropriate for PD5500, ASME Div1, TEMA and any other codes. The issue of cost was also raised. If that is the question, then the answer should be framed accordingly.
Firstly, PD 5500 is important to those wishing to enter the European market, being able to compete of a level footing with the design methods used there. Performing calculations per this code can be extremely tedious, especially nozzle reinforcement, and even head thicknesses, as simple formulae are not used.
There are a number of software packages that do this type of analyis which have been mentioned by others replying to the question (remember the question).
Compress does not perform PD 5500 calculations, and performing tubesheet calculations to TEMA requires the purchase of an extra module. The same applies to Finglow which also involves the purchaser in buying the programme module by module. Also, these days, fatigue analysis is required for risk analysis, although this point was not part of the question.
As far as costs are concerned, the basic packages run fairly close to one another ($4000 to $5000 ballpark). However, what does the basic software include? Much of the software requires the purchase of additional modules each increasing the cost of the software and maintenance. What software is sold with everything complete all in one package. Well PVElite does, plus the fact that it performs analyses to ASME Div 1 & 2. PD 5500, TEMA and also will perform fatigue analysis (to PD 5500).
The choice of any commodity is based on cut, fit and style. That is how we buy shoes and cars. It probably applies to software. I use PD 5500 frequently, and it is being called for more and more by those interested in the European market.
