A spherical gas container made of steel has a (n) 17-ft outer diameter and a wall thickness of 0.375 in. Knowing that the internal pressure is 60 psi, determine the maximum normal stress and the maximum shearing stress in the container.

Maximum Normal Stress σ = 8.16 Ksi

Maximum Shearing Stress τ = 4.08 Ksi

Explanation:

Outer diameter of spherical container D = 17 ft

Convert feet to inches D = 17 x 12 in = 204 inches

Wall thickness t = 0.375 in

Internal Pressure P = 60 Psi

Maximum Normal Stress σ = PD / 4t

σ = PD / 4t

σ = (60 psi x 204 in) / (4 x 0.375 in)

σ = 12,240 / 1.5

σ = 8,160 P/in

σ = 8.16 Ksi

Maximum Shearing Stress τ = PD / 8t

τ = PD / 8t

τ = (60 psi x 204 in) / (8 x 0.375 in)

τ = 12,240 / 3

τ = 4,080 P/in

τ = 4.08 Ksi