An investigation of the influence of production method on the cyclic strength of welded assemblies of thin-walled connections of atomic power station pressure vessels

A calculation-experimental method has been developed for determining the life of welded assemblies of thin-walled connections in the holes of thick-walled pressure vessels. A model of a connection is calculated with use of the finite element method and the number of load cycles at a given level of cyclic load necessary for determination of life is established. The results of experimental investigations make it possible to determine more accurately the effective concentration factor determining the cyclic strength of such a type of structure and also the safety factors.