Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around calculating the forces acting on a pressure vessel that contains a vacuum, specifically addressing non-cylindrical or non-spherical shapes. Participants explore resources and methodologies for understanding external pressure effects on such vessels.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant suggests that the problem should be viewed as an external pressure issue, noting that the internal vacuum or external atmospheric pressure does not change the fundamental calculations.
- Another participant references the ASME boiler and pressure vessel code as a valuable resource, although they express uncertainty about its coverage of external pressure for non-standard shapes.
- A later reply emphasizes that ASME code primarily addresses cylindrical or spherical vessels and that for flat plates, the relevant calculation focuses on the differential pressure (dP) across the plate, regardless of whether the pressure is below atmospheric.
- Participants mention "Roark's Formulas for Stress and Strain" as an additional resource for flat plate calculations.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
There is some agreement on the importance of considering external pressure, but participants express differing views on the applicability of ASME code to non-cylindrical or non-spherical vessels, indicating a lack of consensus on the best approach for these shapes.
Contextual Notes
Participants acknowledge limitations in the resources available and the specific applicability of codes and formulas to different vessel shapes, which may affect the calculations discussed.