Fracture analysis of thick-wall cylinder pressure vessels

Fracture mechanics analysis of cylindrical pressure vessels is described in a brief fracture case study. Also included are additional examples of crack growth in pressure vessels and cannons. The case study is of an early brittle failure and subsequent redesign of a cannon tube. Fracture mechanics test methods are described which were developed specifically for testing of cylindrical geometries. Three examples of current fracture analysis of cylindrical pressure vessels are presented. Fast fracture of a vessel is described, including effects of tension residual stress and crack shape. Evidence of environmentally assisted fracture of a cannon tube is presented. Fatigue crack growth and life calculation methods for cylindrical pressure vessels are discussed including effects of compressive residual stress due to overstrain.