On the Yielding of Two-Layer Composite Spherical Pressure Vessels

Abstract

The yielding of two-layer composite spherical pressure vessels under either internal or external pressure is investigated analytically in the framework of small deformations and von Mises yield criterion. It is shown for both pressure cases that depending on the material properties and sphere dimensions, different modes of plasticization may take place. Unlike the deformation behavior of a single layer spherical pressure vessel, yielding may commence at the inner layer or at the outer layer or simultaneously at both layers of the assembly.