Minimum distance for shell course vertical seams 1

[prooney]

Does anyone know what the minimum distance that the vertical seams on mating shell courses can be to each other?

Or were I can find it in the API standards? Thanks in advance.

 

[jte]

Depends on which standard...

For API-650 see 3.1.5.2.b which states that the minimun separation of vertical seams on adjoining shell courses shall be 5t there t is the thickness of the shell plate.

jt

 

[prooney]

Thanks jt.

 

[LeonEarle]

Be careful here. Although the minimum is stated in API 650, for constructability, you would want to have a minimum of 2'. If you don't, especially on thin steel, you will increase your chances of peaking and banding problems in the intersections.