Flexible saddle support of a horizontal cylindrical pressure vessel

The subject of this paper is the supporting saddle of a horizontal cylindrical pressure vessel filled with liquid. A parametric model of the saddle support has been developed; the effect of the geometrical parameters on the stress values arising in the structure has been examined by means of the Finite Element Method. The shape and location of the supporting saddle have been determined with a view to minimizing the concentration of stresses. Results of numerical analysis allow determination of the effective proportions of the geometrical parameters of the vessel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]