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Large Rect. Opening in a Cylindrical Shell

Large Rect. Opening in a Cylindrical Shell

Large Rect. Opening in a Cylindrical Shell

(OP)
I am working on a large expansion joint design.  This expansion joint has a very large rectangular nozzle (88" x 53") that goes radially into a round shell (78" OD).  The long side of the rectangular opening runs parallel to centerline of the 78" shell.  

I know that I can use Appendix 1-7 for the analysis of the stress and reinforcement.  But, can I convert the rectangular shell into a round shell of equal area, or is there a method avaailable that addresses this.  I have heard that Dr. A.E. Blach had some analysis for this situation.  Has anyone seen this?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!  

RE: Large Rect. Opening in a Cylindrical Shell

That is a new one that I haven't heard before.  I doubt that you could consider the rectangle as a circle because the modes of failure would be different with pressure.  With the rectangle you must consider bending moments in the corner which is completely different than the membrane stress a cylinder experiences under pressure.  You may find some insight in App 13.  Look there and you will find the areas of interest regard a rectangular opening.

I have a good feeling that this will fall into U-2(g), good engineering practice.

RE: Large Rect. Opening in a Cylindrical Shell

(OP)
Thanks inno2.  I know there are shell and tube condenser manufacturers that face this issue all the time.  just not sure how they approach it.  i suspect that they use a standard approach that has not resulted in failure.  what that approach is, is anyone's guess.  i may have to FEA the thing to determine a course of action.  

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