A procedure for assessing the significance of flaws in pressurized components

A procedure has recently been developed for assessing the significance of flaws in pressurized components taking account of both linear elastic and large scale yielding mechanics. The philosophy behind this procedure is discussed briefly and the use of the procedure is demonstrated using as an example postulated flaws in 3 different positions of a cylinder-cylinder intersection. The effects of changes in such parameters as flaw size, applied load and fracture toughness on the assessment are shown to be easily quantified. The relative merits of competing designs can thus be assessed properly and balanced against such aspects as cost of fabrication and the ease of service inspection. (author)