Analytical Investigations of Compact Reinforcement for Radial Nozzles in Spherical Shells

Compact reinforcement for a series of models having single nozzles radially attached to spherical shells was examined by means of finite element analyses. Parameters studied were diameter-to-thickness ratios of the nozzles, diameter-to-thickness ratios of the spherical shells, percentage of reinforcement, outside reinforcement, inside reinforcement, and “balanced” reinforcement (reinforcement on both the inside and outside surfaces). The loading was internal pressure. Comparisons of theoretical predictions with experimental results are presented for one reinforced model. Twelve models were analyzed to examine the effect of compact reinforcement.