Fatigue analyses of the inner and outer rings of hyper compressor retainers were performed to determine the optimum interference fit and interference fit diameter to maximize the fatigue life of both the inner and outer rings when subjected to cyclic operating internal pressures. The relationships between the optimum interference fit diameter, the amount of interference and cyclic pressures are derived using the fatigue analysis methodology of the ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 3. The effect of axial preload is evaluated, and the results are checked using the finite element method.

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the stress concentration in stress fields around crossbores for closed-end thick-walled square blocks and cylindrical shells using the finite element method. These stress concentration factors are presented and discussed as a function of the ratio of crossbore radius to the cylinder internal radius (HR/Ri = 0.01 to 0.7) for a range of wall ratios (Y = 1.5 to 5). Charts and simple expressions are provided for ease of use.

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the stress concentration in stress fields around crossbores for closed-end thick-walled square blocks and cylindrical shells using the finite element method. These stress concentration factors are presented and discussed as a function of the ratio of crossbore radius to the cylinder internal radius (HR/Ri=0.01 to 0.7) for a range of wall ratios (Y=1.5 to 5). Charts and simple expressions are provided for ease of use.

The available design formulas for flat heads and blind end closures in the ASME Code, Section VIII, Divisions 1 and 2 are based on bending theory and do not apply to the design of thick flat heads used in the design of high pressure vessels. This paper presents new design formulas for thickness requirements and determination of peak stresses and stress distributions for fatigue and fracture mechanics analyses in thick blind ends. The use of these proposed design formulas provide a more accurate determination of the required thickness and fatigue life of blind ends. The proposed design formulas are given in terms of the yield strength of the material and address the fatigue strength at the location of the maximum stress concentration factor. Introduction of these new formulas in a non-mandatory appendix of Section VIII, Division 3 is recommended after committee approval.

The object of this paper is to describe the details of a vessel explosion caused by human error, the incident investigation including engineering analysis of the explosion observations, and the recommended changes that were implemented to avoid a similar incident in the future. Fortunately, this incident did not cause any personal injuries. Stress analysis of the Breech Nut threads was performed to determine if the Breech Nut could be safely used after the incident. Released energy and missile analyses were performed to verify the assumptions made on the source of the explosion.