THIN AND THICK CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

UNIT V

THIN CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

5.1. INTRODUCTION
The vessels such as boilers, compressed air receivers etc., are of cylindrical and
spherical forms. These vessels are generally used for storing fluids (liquid or gas) under
pressure. The walls of such vessels are thin as compared to their diameters. If the
thickness of the wall of the cylindrical vessels is less than 1/15 to 1/20 of its internal
diameter, the cylindrical vessel is known as thin cylinder. In case of thin cylinders, the
stress distribution is assumed uniform over the thickness of the wall.
5.2. THIN CYLINDRICAL VESSEL SUBJECTED TO INTERNAL PRESSURE
Let d = Internal diameter of the thin cylinder
t =Thickness of the wall of the cylinder
p =Internal pressure of the fluid
L =Length of the cylinder

One of the internal pressure p, the cylindrical vessel may fail by splitting up in
any one of the two ways.
The forces, due to pressure of the fluid acting vertically upwards and downwards
on the thin cylinder, tend to burst the cylinder.

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The forces, due to pressure of the fluid, acting at the thin cylinder, tend to burst
the thin cylinder.
5.3. STRESSES IN A THIN CYLINDRICAL VESSEL SUBJECTED TO
INTERNAL PRESSURE
When a thin cylindrical vessel is subjected to internal fluid pressure, the stresses
in the wall of the cylinder on the cross section along the axis and on the cross section
perpendicular to the axis are set up. These stresses are tensile and are known as:
1. Circumferential stress (or hoop stress) and
2. Longitudinal stress
The name of the stress is given according to the direction in which
the stress is acting. The stress acting along the circumference of the
cylinder is called circumferential stress whereas the stress acting along
the length of the cylinder (i.e., in the longitudinal direction) is known
as longitudinal stress. The circumferential stress is also known as
hoop stress. The stress set up in is circumferential stress whereas the
stress set up in is longitudinal stress.

5.4. EXPRESSION FOR CIRCUMFERENTIAL STRESS (OR) HOOP STRESS

Consider a thin cylinder vessel subjected to an internal fluid pressure. The
circumferential stress will be set up in the material of the cylinder, if the bursting of the
cylinder takes place.
The expression for hoop stress or circumferential stress is obtained as given
below.

Let p =Internal pressure of the fluid

 THIN AND THICK CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

d =Internal diameter of the cylinder

t =Thickness of the wall of the cylinder
σ1 =Circumferential or hoop stress in the material
The bursting will take place if the force due to fluid pressure is more than the
resisting force due to circumferential stress set up in the material. In the limiting case,
the two forces should be equal.
Forces due to fluid pressure = p ×Area on which p is acting
=p × (d × L)…………….(i)
Forces due to circumferential stress
= σ1 × Area on which σ1 is acting
= σ1 ×(L × t + L × t)
= σ1 ×2Lt = 2σ1 × L×t……………..(ii)
Equating (i) and (ii) we get
P × d × L =2σ1 × L × t
Pd
σ1 = This stresses is tensile.
2t
5.5. EXPRESSION FOR LONGITUDINAL STRESS
Consider a thin cylindrical vessel subjected to internal fluid pressure. The
longitudinal stress will be set up in the material of the cylinder, if the bursting of the
cylinder takes place along the section AB.

The longitudinal stress (σ2) developed in the material is obtained as:

Let p =Internal pressure of fluid stored in thin cylinder
d =Internal diameter of cylinder
t =Thickness of the cylinder
σ2 =Longitudinal stress in the material
STRENGTH OF MATERIALS

Thus bursting will take place if the force due to fluid pressure acting on the ends of
the cylinder is more than the resisting force due to longitudinal stress developed in the
material. In the limiting case, both the forces should be equal.
Forces due to fluid pressure = p × Area on which p is acting
π 2
=p× d
4
Resisting force = σ2 × area on which σ2 is acting
= σ2 × πd × t
Hence in the limiting case
Force due to fluid pressure = resisting force
π 2
p× d = σ2 × πd × t
4
pd
σ2 =
4t
The stress σ2 is also tensile equation can be written as
pd
σ2 =
2 ×2t
1 pd
σ2 = ×σ1 (∵ σ1= )
2 2t
or Longitudinal stress=Half of circumferential stress
This also means that circumferential stress is two times the longitudinal stress
Hence in the material of the cylinder the permissible stress should be less than the
circumferential stress should not be greater than the permissible stress.
Maximum shear stress At any point in the material of the cylindrical shell,
there are two principle stresses, namely a circumferential stress of magnitude σ1 = pd/2t
acting circumferentially and a longitudinal stress of magnitude σ2 =pd/4t acting parallel
to the axis of the shell. These two stresses are tensile and perpendicular to each other.
σ2
Maximum shear stress τmax = σ1 -
2
pd
pd 4t
= −
4t 2
pd
τmax =
8t
 THIN AND THICK CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

Problem 5.1:A cylindrical pipe of diameter 1.5m and the thickness1.5 cm is subjected
to an internal fluid pressure of 1.2N/mm2 Determine (i) Longitudinal stress developed
in the pipe, and (II)circumferential stress developed in the pipe.
Given data:
Diameter of pipe d=1.5 m = 1.5×103 mm
Thickness t=1.5cm = 15 mm
Internal fluid pressure p=1.2 N/mm2
To find:
Longitudinal stress σ2 = ?
Circumferential stress σ1 = ?
Solution:
t 1.5×10−2 1 1
As the ratio = = , which is less than hence this is a case of
d 1.5 100 20
thin cylinder.
Here unit of pressure (p) in N/mm2 Hence the unit of σ1 and σ2 will also be in
N/mm2
(i)The longitudinal stress(σ2) is given by equation
pd 1.2 ×1.5×103
σ2 = = = 30 N/mm2
4t 4 ×15
(ii)The circumferential stress (σ1) is given by equation
pd 1.2 ×1.5×103
σ1 = = = 60 N/mm2
2t 2×15
Result:
Longitudinal stress σ2 = 30 N/mm2
Circumferential stress σ1 = 60 N/mm2
Problem5.2: A cylinder of internal diameter 2.5m and of thickness 5 cm contains a gas.
If the tensile stress in the material is not to exceed 80 N/mm2 determine the internal
pressure of the gas.
Given data:
Internal diameter of cylinder d =2.5m = 2.5×103 mm
Thickness of the cylinder t =5cm=50 mm
Maximum permissible stress =80 N/mm2
STRENGTH OF MATERIALS

To find:
Internal pressure of the gas p =?
Solution:
Maximum permissible stress is available in the circumferential stress (σ1 )
pd
∴ circumferential stress (σ1 ) =
2t
p ×2.5×103
80 =
2×50

≫ p = 3.2N/mm2
Result:
Internal pressure of the gas p =3.2N/mm2

Problem 5.3: A cylinder of internal diameter 0.50 m contains air at a pressure of

7N/mm2(gauge). If the maximum permissible stress induced in the material is
80N/mm2, find the thickness of the cylinder.
Given data:
Internal dia of cylinder d=0.50m = 500 mm
Internal pressure of air, p=7 N/mm2
Circumferential stress, σ1=80N/mm2 (∵ maximum permissible stress)
To find:
Thickness of cylinder t =?
Solution:
pd
Wkt Circumferential stress (σ1 ) =
2t
7 ×500
80 =
2×t

≫ t = 21.88mm
If the value t is taken more than 21.875 mm(sat t=21.88 mm), the stress
induced will be less than 80N/mm2.
Hence take t=21.88 mm or say 22 mm
Result:
Thickness of cylinder t = 22 mm
 THIN AND THICK CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

Problem 5.4: A thin cylinder of internal diameter 1.25m contains a fluid at an internal
pressure of 2N/mm2. Determine the maximum thickness of the cylinder if (i) The
longitudinal stress is not to exceed 30N/mm2 and (ii)The circumferential stress is not to
exceed 45N/mm2
Given data:
Internal dia of cylinder, d =1.25 m = 1.25×103 mm
Internal pressure of fluid, p = 2N/mm2
Longitudinal stress σ2 = 30n/mm2
Circumferential stress, σ1= 45N/mm2
To find:
Thickness of cylinder t =?
Solution:
pd
Wkt Circumferential stress (σ1 ) =
2t
2 ×1.25×103
45 =
2×t

≫ t = 27.7 mm
pd
Wkt, longitudinal stress σ2 =
4t
2 ×1.25×103
30 =
4 ×t

≫ t = 28.0 mm

from the above two thickness value it is clear that t should not be less than
27.7mm. Hence take t=28. mm.
Result:
Thickness of cylinder t = 28 mm
Problem 5.5: A water main 80 cm diameter contains water at a pressure head of 100m.
If the weight density of water is 9810N/m3, find the thickness of the metal required for
the water main given the permission stress as 20N/mm2.
Given data:
Diameter of main, d=80 cm = 800 mm
STRENGTH OF MATERIALS

Pressure head of water, h=100 m = 100 ×103 mm

Weight density of water ω =𝜌 × g =1000×9.81=9810 N/m3
Permissible stress =20N/mm2
To find:
Thickness of the metal t =?
Solution:
Permissible stress is equal to circumferential stress(σ1)
Pressure of water inside the water main,
p = ρ × g × h = ω.h= 9810×100 N/m2
Here σ1 is in N/mm2 hence pressure (p) should be N/mm2. The value of p in
N/mm2 is given as
P = 9810×100/10002
= 0.981N/mm2
pd
Wkt Circumferential stress σ1 =
2t
0.981 ×800
20 =
2×t

≫ t = 20 mm
Result:
Thickness of the metal t = 20 mm
5.6. EFFICIENCY OF A JOINT
The cylindrical shells such as boilers are having two types of joints namely
longitudinal joint and circumferential joint. In case of a joint, holes are made in the
material of the shell for the rivets. Due to the holes, the area offering resistance
decreases. Due to the decreases in area, the stress developed in the material of the shell
will be more.
Hence in case of riveted shell the circumferential and longitudinal stresses are
greater than what are given by eqn. If the efficiency of a longitudinal joint and
circumferential joint are given then the circumferential and longitudinal stresses are
obtained as:
Let ηl = Efficiency of a longitudinal joint, and
 THIN AND THICK CYLINDERS AND SPHERES

ηc = Efficiency of the circumferential joint.

Then the circumferential stress (σ1) is given as
pd
σ1 =
2t×ηl

and the longitudinal stress (σ2) is given as

pd
σ2 =
4t×ηc

Problem 5.6: A boiler is subjected to an internal steam pressure of 2N/mm2. The

thickness of boiler plate is 2.0cm and permissible tensile stress is 120N/mm2. Find
out the maximum diameter when efficiency of longitudinal joint is 90% and that of
circumferential joint is 40%
Given data:
Internal steam pressure p = 2N/mm2
Thickness of boiler plate t = 2.0cm = 20mm
Permissible tensile stress =120N/mm2
Efficiency of Longitudinal joint, ηl =90%=0.90
Efficiency of circumferential joint, ηc =40%=0.40
To find:
Find the maximum diameter = ?
Solution:
For Circumferential stress σ1 = 120 N/ mm2
pd
Wkt Circumferential stress σ1 =
2t×ηl
2 ×d
120 =
2×20×0.90

≫ d = 2160 mm ……………………(i)
For longitudinal stress σ2 = 120 N/ mm2
pd
Wkt, longitudinal stress σ2 =
4t×ηc
2 ×d
120 =
4 ×20 ×0.40

≫ d = 1920 mm ……………….(ii)

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hence suitable maximum diameter d=1920 mm.

Note: If d is taken as equal to216cm the longitudinal stress will be more than the given
permissible value as shown below.
pd
σ2 =
4t×ηc
2 ×216
σ2 = = 135 N/ mm2
4 ×20 ×0.40
Problem 5.7: A boiler shell is to be mad of 15mm thick plate having a limiting tensile
stress of 120 N/mm2. If the efficiencies of the longitudinal and circumferential joints
are 70% and 30% respectively determine;
(i) The max permissible diameter of the shell for an internal pressure of 2N/mm2
(ii) permissible intensity of internal pressure when the shell diameter is 1.5m
Given data:
Thickness of boiler shell, t =15mm
Limiting tensile stress =120N/mm2
Efficiency of longitudinal joint ηl =70%=0.70
Efficiency of circumferential joint ηc =30%=0.30
To find:
Maximum permissible diameter d =?
Internal pressure p =?
Solution:
i) Maximum permissible diameter for an internal pressure p = 2 N/mm2
The boiler shell should be designed for the limiting tensile stress of 120N/mm2.
First consider the limiting tensile stress as circumferential stress and then as longitudinal
stress. The minimum diameter of the two case will satisfy the condition.
(a)Taking limiting tensile stress =circumferential stress σ1 =120N/mm2
Wkt the circumferential stress σ1
pd
σ1 =
2t×ηl
2 ×d
120 =
2×15×0.70

≫ d = 2160 mm …………………(i)

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(b)Taking limiting tensile stress = longitudinal stress σ2=120N/mm2

Wkt the longitudinal stress σ2
pd
σ2 =
4t×ηc
2 ×d
120 =
4×15×0.30

≫ d = 1080 mm
(ii) Permissible intensity of internal pressure when the shell diameter is 1.5m
d =1.5m=1500mm
(a)Taking limiting tensile stress=circumferential stress(σ1) =120 N/mm2
Wkt the circumferential stress σ1
pd
σ1 =
2t×ηl
p ×1500
120 =
2×15×0.70

≫ p = 1.68 N/mm2 …………………(i)

(b)Taking limiting tensile stress = longitudinal stress σ2=120 N/mm2
Wkt the longitudinal stress σ2
pd
σ2 =
4t×ηc
p ×1500
120 =
4×15×0.30

≫ p = 1.44 N/mm2 …………………..(ii)

value of pressure given by (i) & (ii)
Max permissible internal pressure is taken as the minimum value of (i) & (ii)
p =1.44N/mm2
pd
σ2 =
4t×ηc
1.44 ×1500
= = 140N/mm2.
4×15×0.30
Problem 5.8: A cylinder of thickness 1.5cm, has to withstand maximum internal
pressure of 1.5N/mm2. If the ultimate tensile stress in the material of the cylinder is

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300N/mm2 factor of safety 3.0 and joint efficiency 80% determine the diameter of the
cylinder.
Given Data:
Thickness of cylinder t = 1.5cm = 15 mm
internal pressure p =1.5N/mm2
ultimate tensile stress = 300N/mm2
FOS =3.0
joint efficiency = 80%
To find:
Diameter of the cylinder d =?

Solution:
Working stress, σ1 = Ultimate tensile stress/FOS
= 300/3
=100N/mm2
Joint efficiency, ƞ = 80% =0.80
Joint efficiency means the efficiency of longitudinal joint ηl
The stress corresponding to longitudinal joint is given by equation
pd
σ1 =
2t×ηl
1.5 ×d
100 =
2×15×0.80

≫ d =1600 mm=1.6m
5.7. EFFECT OF INTERNAL PRESSURE ON THE DIMENSIONS OF A THIN
CYLINDRICAL SHELL
When a fluid having internal pressure (p) is stored in a thin cylindrical shell, due
to internal pressure of the fluid the stresses set up at any point of the material of the
shell are:
(i)Hoop circumferential stress(σ1),acting on longitudinal section.
(ii)Longitudinal stress(σ2) acting on the circumferetial section.
These stresses are principal stresses, as they are acting on principal planes. The
stress in the third principal plane is zero as the thickness (t) of the cylinder is very small.

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Actually the stress in the third principal plane is radial stress which is very small for
thin cylinders and can be neglected.
Let p = Internal pressure of fluid
L= Length of cylindrical shell
d = Diameter of the cylindrical shell
t = Thickness of the cylindrical shell
E = Modulus of Elasticity for the material of the shell
σ1 = Hoop stress in the material
σ2 = Longitudinal stress in the material
𝛿d = change in diameter due to stresses set up in the material
𝛿L = change in length
𝛿v = change in volume
 =poison ratio
The value of σ1 and σ2 are given by eqn and as
𝑝𝑑
σ1=
2𝑡
𝑝𝑑
σ2=
4𝑡
Let e1 = circumferential strain,
e2 = Longitudinal strain,
Then circumferential strain,
σ1 σ2
e1 = -
𝐸 𝐸
𝑝𝑑 𝑝𝑑
= -
2𝑡𝐸 4𝑡𝐸
𝑝𝑑 
= (1 − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
and longitudinal strain,
σ2 σ1
e2 = -
𝐸 𝐸
𝑝𝑑 𝑝𝑑
= -
4𝑡𝐸 2𝑡𝐸
𝑝𝑑 1
= ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2

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But circumferential strain is also given as,

Change in circumferential due to pressure
e1 =
original circumference
Final circumference−original circumference
=
original circumference
π(d+𝛿d) − πd
=
πd
πd+π𝛿d − πd
=
πd
𝛿d
=
d
Equating the two values of e1 given by equations and we get
𝛿d 𝑝𝑑 
= (1 − )
d 2𝑡𝐸 2
Change in diameter
𝑝𝑑2 
𝛿d = (1 − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
similarly longitudinal strain is also given as,
e2=change in length due to pressure/original length
= 𝛿L / L
Equating the two values of e2 given by equation
𝑝𝑑 1
𝛿L / L = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
Change in length
𝑝𝑑𝐿 1
𝛿L = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
Volumetric strain.
It is defined as change in volume divided by original volume
𝛿V
Volumetric strain =
V

But change in volume (𝛿V) = Final volume - Original volume

Original volume (V) = Area of cylindrical shell × Length
𝜋
= ×𝑑 2 ×L
4
Final volume = (Final area of cross section)×Final length

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𝜋
= (𝑑 + 𝛿𝑑 )2 × (L+ 𝛿L)
4
𝜋
= [𝑑2 + (𝛿𝑑)2 + 2𝑑𝛿𝑑] × [L+𝛿L]
4
𝜋
= [𝑑 2 𝐿 + (𝛿𝑑)2 𝐿 + 2𝑑𝐿𝛿𝑑 + 𝑑 2 𝛿L + (𝛿𝑑)2 𝛿L + 2𝑑𝛿𝑑𝛿L]
4
Neglecting the smaller quantities such as (𝛿𝑑)2 𝐿 , (𝛿𝑑)2 𝛿L and 2𝑑𝛿𝑑𝛿L, we
get
𝜋
Final volume = [𝑑2 𝐿 + 2𝑑𝐿𝛿𝑑 + 𝑑2 𝛿L]
4
Change in volume (𝛿V)
𝜋
= [𝑑2 𝐿 + 2𝑑𝐿𝛿𝑑 + 𝑑2 𝛿L]- 𝜋4×𝑑2 ×L
4
𝜋
= [2𝑑𝐿𝛿𝑑 + 𝑑2 𝛿L]
4
Then volumetric strain = 𝛿V/V
𝜋
4
[2𝑑𝐿𝛿𝑑+ 𝑑2 𝛿L]
= 𝜋
4
×𝑑2 ×L

𝛿𝑑 𝛿𝐿 𝛿𝑑 𝛿𝐿
=2 + =2e1+e2 [∵ =e1, =e2]
𝑑 𝐿 𝑑 𝐿
𝑝𝑑  𝑝𝑑 1
=2 × (1 − ) + ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2 2𝑡𝐸 2
Substitutes the value of e1 and e2
𝑝𝑑 2 1
= (2 − + − )
2𝑡𝐸 2 2
𝑝𝑑 1
=
2𝑡𝐸
(2 + 2 −  − )
𝑝𝑑 5
=
2𝑡𝐸 2
( − 2)
Also change in volume (𝛿V)=V(2e1+e2)
Problem 5.9 Calculate (i) the change in diameter, (ii) change in length (iii)change in
volume of a thin cylindrical shell 100 cm diameter, 1cm thick and 5m long when
subjected to internal pressure of 3N/mm2. Take the value of E=2×105N/mm2 and
poisons ratio  = 0.3
Given data:
Diameter of shell d =100cm = 1000mm
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Thickness of shell t =1cm = 10 mm

Length of shell L= 5m=5×103 mm
Internal pressure p = 3N/mm2
Young’s modulus E = 2×105
Poisson’s ratio  = 0.30
To find:
(i) change in diameter 𝛿d =?
(ii) change in length 𝛿L =?
(iii) change in volume 𝛿𝑉 =?
Solution:
(i)Change in diameter (𝛿d) is given by equation
𝑝𝑑2 
𝛿d = (1 − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
3× 10002 0.30
= (1 − )
2×10×2×105 2
= 0.6375 mm
(ii) Change in length (𝛿L) is given by equation
𝑝𝑑𝐿 1
𝛿L = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
3× 1000×5×103 1
= ( − 0.30)
2×10×2×105 2
= 0.75 mm
(iii)change in volume (𝛿V) is given by equation
𝛿V=V[2e1+e2]
𝛿d 𝛿𝐿
=V[2× + ]
d 𝐿
substituting the values of 𝛿d, 𝛿L, d and L, we get
0.06375 0.075
𝛿V =V[2× + ]
1000 5×103
𝜋 2 𝜋
Where V=original volume = ×𝑑 ×L = ×10002 × 5×103 = 3.92 ×109 mm3
4 4
0.06375 0.075
𝛿V= 3.92 ×109 [2× + ]
1000 5×103

= 5.595 ×106 mm3

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Problem 5.10: A cylindrical shell 90cm long20cm internal diameter having thickness
of metal as 8mm is filled with fluid at atmospheric pressure. If an additional 20cm3 of
fluid is pumped into the cylinder find (i)the pressure exerted by the fluid on the cylinder
and (ii) the hoop stress induced. Take E=2×105 N/mm2 and =0.3
Given data:
Length of cylinder L=90cm = 900mm
Diameter od cylinder d=20cm = 200 mm
Thickness of cylinder t=8mm
Increase in volume δV=Volume of additional fluid =20×103 mm3
E = 2×105 N/mm2
 = 0.3
To find:
(i) pressure exerted by the fluid
(ii) hoop stress induced
Solution:
𝜋 𝜋
volume of cylinder V= ×𝑑 2 ×L = ×2002 × 900 = 2.827 ×107 mm3
4 4
(i)Let p=pressure of exerted by fluid on the cylinder
Now using eqn volumetric strain is given as
𝛿𝑉
= 2e1 + e2
𝑉
20 ×103
= 2e1+e2 ………………………..(i)
2.827×107
But e1 and e2 are circumferential and longitudinal strains and given by equation
and respectively as
𝑝𝑑 
e1 = (1 − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
𝑝𝑑 1
e2 = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
substitute these values in eqn (i) we get
20 ×103 𝑝𝑑  𝑝𝑑 1
7 =2 (1 − ) + ( − )
2.827×10 2𝑡𝐸 2 2𝑡𝐸 2

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20 ×103 𝑝×200 0.3 𝑝×200 1

2.827×10 7 =2 2×8×2×10 5 (1 − 2
)+ 2×8×2×105 (2 − 0.3)
p = 5.386 N/mm2
(ii) Hoop stress (σ1) is given by equation
𝑝𝑑 5.386 ×200
σ1 = =
2𝑡 2×8
= 67.33N/mm2
Result:
(i) pressure exerted by the fluid (p) = 5.386 N/mm2
(ii) hoop stress induced (σ1) = 67.33N/mm2
Problem 5.11: A cylindrical vessel whose ends are closed by means of rigid flanges
plates, is made of steel plate 3mm thick. The length and the internal diameter of the
vessel are 50cm and 25cm respectively. Determine the longitudinal and hoop stress in
the cylindrical shell due to an internal fluid pressure of 3N/mm2. Also calculate the
increase in length, diameter and volume of the vessel. Take E=2×107 N/mm2 and =0.3
Given data:
Thickness t = 3mm
Length of the cylindrical vessel L= 50cm = 500 mm
Internal diameter d = 25cm = 250 mm
Internal fluid pressure p = 3N/mm2
Young’s modulus E = 2×105 N/mm2
Poisson’s ratio  = 0.3
To find:
Longitudinal stress and hoop stress =?
Increase in length, diameter and volume =?
Solution:
𝑝𝑑 3 ×250
Using equation for hoop stress σ1 = =
2𝑡 2×3
= 125N/mm2
𝑝𝑑 3 ×250
Using equation for longitudinal stress σ2 = =
4𝑡 4×3
= 62.5 N/mm2

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σ1 σ2 1 σ2
Using equation for circumferential strain e1 = - = = (σ1 − )
𝐸 𝐸 𝐸 2
1 62.5
=
2×10 5 (125 − 2
)
= 53.125×10−5
σ2 σ1
And longitudinal strain, e2 = -
𝐸 𝐸

But circumferential strain is also given by equation

e1 = δd/d
Equating the two values of circumferential strain e1 we get
δd/d = 53.125×10−5
δd = 53.125×10−5 ×d
= 53.125×10−5 ×250
= 0.133 mm
Increase in diameter δd=0.133mm
σ2 σ1
Longitudinal strain is given by equation, e2 = δL/L, But e2 = -m
𝐸 𝐸
Then
σ2 σ1
δL/L = -
𝐸 𝐸
1
δL/L = (σ2 − σ1 )
𝐸
1
= (62.5σ2 − 125)
2×105

=12.5×10−5
Increase in length δL= 12.5×10−5 ×L
= 12.5 ×10−5 ×500
= 0.0625 mm.
Volumetric strain is given as δV/V = 2×e1 + e2
= 2×53.125×10−5 + 12.5×10-5
= 118.75×10−5
Increase in volume δV = 118.75×10−5 ×V

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𝜋
= 118.75×10−5 × ×2502 ×500
4

= 29.13 ×103 mm3

Result :
Hoop stress and Longitudinal stress σ1 = 125 N/mm2; σ2= 62.5 N/mm2
Increase in length, diameter and volume δL = 0.0625 mm
δd = 0.133 mm ;
δV = 29.13 ×𝟏𝟎𝟑 mm3
Problem 5.12: A cylindrical vessel is 1.5m diameter and 4m long is closed at ends by
rigid plates. It is subjected to an internal pressure of 3N/mm2. If the maximum principal
stress is not to exceed 150N/mm2, find the thickness of the shell. Assume
E=2×105 N/mm2 and poison’s ratio=0.25 Find the changes in diameter, Length and
volume of the shell.
Given Data:
Diameter d = 1.5m=1500mm
Length L = 4m=4000mm
Internal pressure p = 3N/mm2
Max principal stress is as σ1= 150N/mm2
E = 2×105 N/mm2
poison’s ratio  = 0.25
To find:
Thickness of cylinder t =?
Change in length, diameter and volume =?

𝑝𝑑
(i)Using hoop stress equations 𝜎1 =
2𝑡
𝑝𝑑 3×1500
t = =
2× 𝜎1 2 ×150

=15mm
𝑝𝑑2 
(ii) Change in diameter 𝛿d = (1 − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
3× 15002 0.30
= 5 (1 − )
2×15×2×10 2
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= 0.984mm
𝑝𝑑𝐿 1
(iii) Change in length 𝛿L = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
3× 1500×4×103 1
= ( − 0.30)
2×15×2×105 2
= 0.75mm
𝑝𝑑 5
(iv) Change in volume δV/V = ( − 2)
2𝑡𝐸 2
𝑝𝑑 5
δV =
2𝑡𝐸 2
( − 2) 𝑉
3× 1500 5 𝜋
= 5 ( − 2 × 0.30)×[ ×2502 ×500]
2×15×2×10 2 4

=10602875mm3
Result:
Thickness of cylinder t = 15 mm
Change in length, diameter and volume δL = 0.984 mm
δd = 0.75 mm ;
δV =10602875 mm3
Problem 5.13: A cylindrical shell 3m long which is closed as the ends has an internal
diameter of 1m and a wall thickness of 15mm. Calculate the circumferential and
longitudinal stresses induced and also changes in the dimensions of the shell, if it is
subjected to an internal pressure of 1.5N/mm2. Take E=2×105 N/mm2 and =0.3
Given data:
Length of shell L=3m=3000 mm
Internal diameter d=1m=1000 mm
Wall thickness t=15mm
Internal pressure p=1.5N/mm2
Young’s modulus E= 2×105 N/mm2
Poison’s ratio  =0.3
To find:
Longitudinal stress and hoop stress =?
Increase in length, diameter and volume =?

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soln:
𝑝𝑑 1.5 ×1000
Using equation for hoop stress σ1 = =
2𝑡 2×15
= 50N/mm2
𝑝𝑑 1.5 ×1000
Using equation for longitudinal stress σ2 = =
4𝑡 4×15
= 25 N/mm2
Change in dimensions
Using equation for the change in diameter (δd)
pd2 1
δd = [1 − × μ]
2tE 2
1.5×10002 1
= [1 − × 0.3]
2×1.5×2×105 2

= 0.2125×10−2 mm
Using equation for change in length we get
𝑝𝑑𝐿 1
𝛿L = ( − )
2𝑡𝐸 2
1.5×10002 1
=
2×1.5×2×10 5 ( − 0.3)
2
= 0.15 mm
Using volumetric strain equation we get,
𝑝𝑑 5
δV/V = ( − 2)
2𝑡𝐸 2
𝑝𝑑 5
δV = ( − 2) 𝑉
2𝑡𝐸 2
1.5×1000 5 2 𝜋
= 5 ( − 2 × 0.30)×[ ×1000 ×3000]
2 4
2×1.5×2×10
= 1119190.85 mm3
Result:
Hoop stress and Longitudinal stress σ1 = 50 N/mm2; σ2= 25 N/mm2
Change in length, diameter and volume δL = 0. 0.002125mm
δd = 0.15 mm ;
δV =1119190.85 mm3

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Problem 5.14: A thin cylindrical shell with following dimensions is filled with a liquid
at atmospheric pressure Length=1.2m external diameter =20cm, thickness of
metal=8mm.
Find the value of the pressure exerted by the liquid on the walls of the
cylinder and the hoop stress induced if an additional volume of 25cm3 of liquid is
pumped into the cylinder. Take E=2.1×105 N/mm2 and poison ratio=0.33
Given data:
Length L=1.2m=1200mm
External diameter D = 20cm=200 mm
Thickness t = 8mm
Internal diameter d = D-(2×t) = 200-(2×8) = 184mm
Additional Volume δV=25cm3 = 25×103 mm3
To find:
Pressure exerted by the liquid on the walls p =?
Hoop stress induced σ1 =?
solution:
Volume of liquid or inside volume of cylinder
𝜋 𝜋
V= ×𝑑 2 ×L = ×1842 × 1200
4 4
= 31908528 mm3
Using volumetric strain equation we get,
𝑝𝑑 5
δV/V = ( − 2)
2𝑡𝐸 2
25000 p×184 5
= ( − 2 × 0.33)
31908528 2×8×2.1×105 2

2500×2×8×2.1×105
p= = 7.77 N/mm2
31908528×184×(2.5−0.66)

Using Circumferential stress equations

𝑝𝑑 7.77×184
σ1 = = = 89.42 N/mm2
2𝑡 2×8
Result:
Pressure exerted by the liquid on the walls p = 7.77 N/mm2
Hoop stress induced σ1 = 89.42 N/mm2

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Problem 5.15: A hallow cylindrical drum 600mm in diameter and 3m long, has a shell
thickness of 10mm. If the drum is subjected to an internal air pressure of 3 N/mm2,
determine the increases in its volumes. Take E=2×105 N/mm2 and poisons ratio =0.3
for the material.
Given data:
External diameter D = 600mm
Length of drum L = 3m=3000mm
Thickness of drum t = 10mm
Internal pressure p = 3N/mm2
Young’s modulus E = 2×105 N/mm2
Poison’s ratio  = 0.3
To find:
Increases in volumes δV =?
Solution:
Internal diameter d = D – (2×t) = 600 – (2×10)
= 580mm
Using volumetric strain equation we get,
𝑝𝑑 5
δV/V = ( − 2)
2𝑡𝐸 2
𝑝𝑑 5 𝜋
δV =
2𝑡𝐸 2
( − 2)V [∵ 𝑉 = × 𝑑 2 × L ]
4

3×580 5 𝜋
= ( − 2 × 0.3)×[ ×5802 ×3000]
2×10×2×105 2 4
= 792623000 mm3
Result:
Increases in volumes δV = 792623000 mm3
5.8. A THIN CYLINDRICAL VESSEL SUBJECTED TO INTERNAL FLUID
PRESSURE AND A TORQUE
When a thin cylinder vessel is subjected to internal fluid pressure (p) the
stresses set up in the material of the vessel are circumferential stress and longitudinal
stress. These two stresses are tensile and are acting perpendicular to each other. If the

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cylindrical vessel is subjected to a torque, shear stresses will also be set up in the
material of the vessel.
Hence at any point in the material of the cylindrical vessel there will
be two tensile stresses mutually perpendicular to each other accompanied by a shear
stress. The major principal stress, the minor principle stress and maximum shear stress
will be obtained is given in Art.
Let 𝜎1 = Circumferential stress
𝜎2 = Longitudinal stress
τ = shear stress due to torque

𝜎1 +𝜎2 𝜎1 −𝜎2 2
The major principal stress = + √( ) + 𝜏2
2 2

𝜎1 +𝜎2 𝜎1 −𝜎2 2
Minor principal stress = − √( ) + 𝜏2
2 2
1
And maximum permissible stress = [major principle stress-minor principle stress]
2

𝜎1 −𝜎2 2
= √( ) + 𝜏2
2

Problem 5.16: A thin cylindrical tube 80mm internal diameter and 5mm thick, is closed
at the ends and is subjected to an internal pressure of 6 N/mm2. A torque of 2009600
Nmm is also applied to the tube. Find the hoop stress, longitudinal stress, maximum
and minimum principal stresses and the maximum shear stress.
Given data:
Internal diameter d = 80mm
Thickness of tube t = 5mm
Internal pressure p = 6N/mm2
Torque applied T = 2009600Nmm
To find:
Hoop stress, longitudinal stress =?
Maximum and minimum principal stresses =?
Maximum shear stress =?

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Solution:
Using equation for hoop stress
𝑝𝑑 6×80
σ1 = =
2𝑡 2×5
= 48 N/mm2
Using equation for longitudinal stress
𝑝𝑑 7.77×184
𝜎2 = =
4𝑡 4×8
= 24 N/mm2
Maximum and minimum principle stresses
Let τ=Shear stress in the wall of the tube
Wkt, shear force = shear stress × shear Area
= τ×(πd×t)
= τ×π×80×5 = 400πτ
𝑑
But, torque, T = shear force ×
2
80
⋙ = 400π×τ× =16000π×τ Nmm
2

But torque applied (T)=2009600 Nmm

Equating the two values of the torque, we get
⋙ 16000π × τ = 2009600
τ = 2009600/16000π =40 N/mm2
Hence the material of the tube is subjected to two tensile stresses(σ1=48 N/mm2
and σ2=24N/mm2)accompanied by a shear stress (τ=40 N/mm2)
Then Maximum permissible stress

𝜎1 +𝜎2 𝜎 −𝜎 2
= + √( 1 2 ) + 𝜏 2
2 2

48+24 48−24 2
= + √( ) + 402
2 2

= 77.7 N/mm2

𝜎1 +𝜎2 𝜎 −𝜎 2
Minimum principal stress = − √( 1 2 ) + 𝜏 2
2 2

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48+24 48−24 2
= − √( ) + 402
2 2

= - 5.76 N/mm2
max principle stress−Min principal stress
Maximum shear stress =
2
77.76−(−5.76)
=
2
= 41.76 N/mm2
Result:
Hoop stress, longitudinal stress 𝝈𝟏 = 𝟒𝟖 N/mm 𝝈𝟐 = 24 N/mm2
Maximum principal stress = 77.7 N/mm2
Minimum principal stress = -5.76 N/mm2
Maximum shear stress = 41.76 N/mm2

Problem 5.17: A copper cylinder 90 cm long, 40cm external diameter and wall
thickness 6mm has its both ends closed by rigid blank flanges. It is initially full of oil
at atmosphere pressure. Calculate the additional volume of oil which must be pumped
into it in order to raise the oil pressure to 5 N/mm2 above atmospheric pressure. For
copper assume E=1.0×105 N/mm2 and poisons ratio =1/3. Take the bulk modulus of
oil as 2.6×103 N/mm3.
Given data:
Length of cylinder L = 90cm = 900 mm
External diameter D = 40cm = 400 mm
Wall thickness t = 6mm
Internal diameter, d = External diameter – (2×Wall thickness)
= 400 – (2×6) = 388 mm
Initial volume of oil, V= Internal volume of cylinder
𝜋
𝑉 = × 𝑑2 × L
4
𝜋
= × 3882 × 900
4

= 1.06413×108 mm3
Increase in oil pressure p = 5 N/mm2

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Young’s modulus for copper E=1.0×105 N/mm2

poisons ratio =1/3 = 0.333
Bulk modulus of oil K= 2.6×103 N/mm3.

To find:
Additional volume of oil pumped into the cylinder =?
Solution:
Due to internal pressure of fluid inside the cylinder, there will be a change in the
dimensions of the cylinder. Due to this, there will be a increase in the volume of the
cylinder. Let us first calculate the increase in volume of the cylinder.
Let
δV1=Increase in volume of cylinder
Then volumetric strain = δV1/V
But Volumetric strain due to fluid pressure is given by equation
𝑝𝑑 5
δV1/V = ( − 2)
2𝑡𝐸 2
𝑝𝑑 5
δV = ( − 2)V
2𝑡𝐸 2
5×388 5 1
= ( − 2 × )×[1.06413×108 ]
2×6×1.0×105 2 3

= 3.15×103 mm3
As bulk modulus of oil is gives, then due to increase of fluid pressure on the oil,
the original volume of oil will decrease. Let us to find this decrease in volume of the
oil.
Let
δV2 = Decreases in volume of oil due to increase of pressure
Bulk modulus is given as
Increase in pressure of oil
k= Increase in pressure of oil
( original volume of oil )

p
= δV2
( V )

𝛿𝑉2 𝑃
=
𝑉 𝐾

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𝑃
𝛿𝑉2 = ×V
𝐾
5
= ×1.06413×108
2.6×103

= 204.64 ×103 mm3

Resultant additional space created in the cylinder
= Increase in volume of cylinder + Decrease in volume of oil
= δV1 + δV2
= 314.98 ×103 + 204.64×103
= 519.62 ×103 mm3
Additional quantity of oil which must be pumped in order to raise the oil
pressure to 5 N/mm2 = 519.62 ×103 mm3

Result:
Additional volume of oil pumped into the cylinder = 519.62 ×𝟏𝟎𝟑 mm3
5.9. WIRE WINDING OF THIN CYLINDER
We have seen in previous articles that hoop stress is two times the longitudinal
stress in a thin cylinder, when the cylinder is subjected to internal fluid pressure. Hence
the failure of a thin cylinder will be due to hoop stress. Also the hoop stress which is
tensile in nature is directly proportional to the fluid pressure inside the cylinder. Hence
the maximum fluid pressure inside the cylinder is limited corresponding to the condition
that the hoop stress reached the permissible value. In case of cylinders which have to
carry high internal fluid pressures, some methods of reducing the hoop stresses have to
be devised.

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One method is to wind strong steel wire under tension on the walls of the
cylinder will be subjected to hoop tensile stress. The net effect of the initial compressive
stress due to wire winding and those due to internal fluid pressure is to make resultant
stress less. The resultant stress in the material of the cylinder will be the hoop stress
due to internal fluid pressure minus the initial compressive stress. Whereas the stress in
the wire will be equal to the sum of the tensile stress due to internal pressure in the
cylinder and initial tensile winding stress.

IF 𝜎𝑤 =Initial winding stress in wire

𝜋 2
Initial tensile force in wire for length L = n × (2 × × 𝑑𝑤 ) × 𝜎𝑤
4

Where n = number of turns of wire in length L

𝑑𝑤 = Diameter of wire
𝐿 𝜋 2
Then n = × (2 × × 𝑑𝑤 ) × 𝜎𝑤
𝑑𝑤 4

𝜎𝑐 = Compressive circumferential stress exerted by wire on cylinder

𝜋
=L× ×𝑑𝑤 ×𝜎𝑤
2

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Compressive force exerted by wire on cylinder for length L=2×L×t×𝜎𝑐

For equilibrium
Initial tensile force in wire=Compressive force on cylinder
𝜋
L× ×𝑑𝑤 ×𝜎𝑤 = 2×L×t×𝜎𝑐
2

π×𝑑𝑤
or 𝜎𝑐 = × 𝜎𝑤
4t
𝜎𝑐∗ = Circumferential stress developed in the cylinder due to fluid pressure only
𝜎𝑤∗ = Stress developed in the wire due to fluid pressure only
Then Resultant stress in the cylinder = (𝜎𝑐∗ - 𝜎𝑐 )
The resultant stress in wire = (𝜎𝑤 +𝜎𝑤∗ )
Problem 5.18: A cast iron pipe of 200mm internal diameter and 12mm thick is wound
closely with a single layer of circular steel wire of 5mm diameter under a tension of 60
N/mm2. Find the initial compressive stress in the pipe section. Also find the stresses
set up in the pipe and steel wire, when water under a pressure of 3.5N/mm2. Poisons
ratio=0.3
Given data:
Internal dia of pipe d = 200mm
pipe thickness t = 12mm
Diameter of wire 𝑑𝑤 = 5mm
Tension in wire = 60N/mm2
Water pressure p = 3.5N/mm2
E for C.I., 𝐸𝐶 = 1×105 N/mm2
E for steel 𝐸𝑆 = 2×105 N/mm2
 = 0.3
To find:
Initial compressive stress due to wire winding =?
Resultant stress =?
Solution:
(i) Before the fluid under pressure is admitted in the cylinder
𝜎𝑤 =60 N/mm2
Consider 1cm length of pipe Number of turns of the wire of 1cm pipe length
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Lengthofpipe 1
= = =2
Diaofwire 0.5
The compressive force exerted by one turn of the wire on the cylinder
= 2 × Area of cross section of wire×𝜎𝑤
𝜋
=2× × 52 × 60 N
4
Total compressive force exerted by the wire on the cylinder per cm length of
the pipe
= No.of turns × Force exerted by one turn
𝜋
= 2 × (2 × × 52 × 60)
4
= 4712N
Sectional area of the cylinder which takes this compressive force
=2×l×t
= 2 × 10 × 12 mm2
Here l=1cm=10mm and t=12mm
Initial compressive stress in the material of the cylinder due to wire windings
𝜎𝐶 = Total compressive force on the cylinder/sectional area of cylinder
4712
= × 10 × 12
2
=19.63 N/mm2
(ii) Stresses due to fluid pressure alone
Let σc* = stresses in the pipe due to fluid pressure 3.5 N/mm2
σw*= Stresses in the wire due to pressure 3.5 N/mm2
The force of fluid which tends to burst the cylinder along longitudinal section
= p.d.l = 3.5 × 200 × 10
=7000N ………………..(i)
Resisting force of cylinder
= Stresses in the cylinder × Area of cylinder resisting
= σc* × 2l × t
= σc* × 2 × 10 × 12
= 240σc*

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𝜋
Resisting force of wire = No of turns × (2 × × 52) × Stress in wire due to fluid
4
pressure
𝜋
= 2 × (2 × × 52) × σw*
4
= 78.54σw*
Total resisting force
=240σc* + 78.5σw* ………………..(ii)
Equating the resisting force (i) and (ii)
=240σc*+78.54σw*=7000 ………………..(iii)
But circumferential strain in cylinder
Circumferential stress longitudinal stress
= − ×
E E

𝜎𝑐∗ (pd/4t)
= − ×
𝐸𝑐 𝐸𝑐
1 3.5×200
= (σc*- ( ) ×0.3)
𝐸𝑐 4×12
1
= (σc*- 4.375) ……………….(iv)
𝐸𝑐
∗
𝜎𝑤
strain in wire = ………………..(v)
𝐸𝑠
Equating eqn (iv) and (v) we get
∗
𝜎𝑤
1
(σc*- 4.375) =
𝐸𝑐 𝐸𝑠
𝐸𝑠
σw* = (σc*- 4.375)
𝐸𝑐

2×105
= (σc*- 4.375)
1×105
= 2(σc*- 4.375) ……………..(vi)
substitute the above value in equation (iii) we get
240σc*+78.54×[2(σc*-4.375)]=7000
397.08σc*=7867.225
σc*=19.36N/mm2
Substitute the value of σc* in equation (vi) we get
σw* = 2(19.36-4.375)
= 29.97N/mm2
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STRENGTH OF MATERIALS

(iii) Resultant stresses in pipe and wire

Resultant stress in pipe
= Initial stress in pipe + Stress due to fluid pressure alone
=19.63(compressive) + 19.36(tensile)
= 0.27 N/mm2 (compressive)
Resultant stress in wire
= Initial stress in wire + stresses due to fluid pressure alone
= 60(tensile) + 29.97 (tensile)
= 89.97N/mm2 (tensile)
Result:
Initial compressive stress due to wire winding = 19.63 N/mm2
Resultant stress = 0.27 N/mm2 (compressive)
= 89.97N/mm2 (tensile)
5.10. THIN SPHERICAL SHELLS
A thin spherical shell of internal diameter d and thickness t and subjected to
an internal fluid pressure p. The fluid inside the shell has a tendency to split the shell
into two hemisphere along x axis
The force P which has a tendency to split the shell
𝜋
= p × ×𝑑 2
4

The area resisting this force=π.d.L

∴ Hoop or circumferential stress
induced in the material of the shell is given by
Force P
σ1 =
Area resisting the force P
π
p× ×d2 𝑝𝑑
4
= =
π.d.t 4𝑡
The stress σ1 is tensile in nature The fluid inside the shell is also having
tendency to split the shell into two hemispheres along y-y axis. Then it can be shown
𝑝𝑑
that the tensile hoop stress will also be equal to . Let the stress is σ2
4𝑡
𝑝𝑑
∴ σ2 = The stress σ2 will be right angles to σ1
4𝑡

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