In my opinion, the use of software for pressure vessel calculations is not about your level of experience. Shit in = shit out, wether you use homemade spreadsheets, code software (advanced spreadsheets) or FEA (very user dependent).
However, by applying a recognized and up to date software for your vessel calculations, you:
- Ensure that your calculations are in accordance to latest code edition.
- Gives your 3rd party inspector (as required by PED for certain vessels, and also often for offshore and ship vessels) a easy job, as he will only need to evaluate if your input make sence, and not if you have an error in your calculations.
- Save time - use it on design rather than calculations.
- Quite easy to try different designs and to get an optimized design of your vessel / check if the prefered solution from a manufacturing view is ok, or if you need to adjust to meet code requirements.
- And many more.
What the software will not contribute with, is the engineering part of of the job - what loads you apply (nozzleloads, wind, earthquake, blast pressure, cyclic loads/fatigue..), the evaluation of the practical aspects and of the results you calculate. As well as specifying proper weld details, NDT test plans etc.
The combination of an experienced engineer with a good software for calcs and close contact with the workshop to evaluate the manufacturing aspects of the product - great!