Fracture Analysis in Pressure Vessels: The Role of Nozzle Offset

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This study investigates the stress intensity factors (SIFs) in cylindrical pressure vessels with nozzles, focusing on the effect of nozzle offset on crack behavior. Cracks are positioned on the inner wall of the cylinder at the nozzle intersection, and their location remains constant while the nozzle is systematically offset on the cylindrical surface. The analysis aims to determine how varying nozzle positions influence the SIFs, providing critical insights into structural integrity under different loading conditions. The study employs finite element analysis (FEA) to model the stress distribution and crack propagation behavior for various nozzle offset scenarios. Results highlight the sensitivity of SIFs to nozzle displacement and emphasize the importance of precise positioning in pressure vessel design to prevent crack propagation and failure. These findings offer practical implications for optimizing pressure vessel and nozzle designs in industrial applications, ensuring enhanced safety and reliability.

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139-150

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December 2025

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© 2025 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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