Stress concentration factors of nozzle–sphere connections

In this short communication, the widely used stress concentration factors for the radial nozzle to spherical shell connection given in the British Standard Specification for Unfired fusion welded pressure vessels [British Standard Specification for Unfired fusion welded pressure vessels, 2000; Welding Research Bulletin, 1963] are examined and contrasted with recent Finite Element Method simulations. Deviations are noted and, as far as possible, explained. Example graphs showing the possible improvement, with regard to accuracy, and also with regard to other improvements related to cyclic fatigue calculations, are given.