Thin-Wall Hoop Stress Calculator
Calculate the hoop (circumferential) stress in a thin-walled cylindrical pressure vessel. Shows the governing equation, variables and assumptions.
Calculator
sigma_h = (p * r) / t where: sigma_h = hoop stress [MPa] p = internal pressure [MPa] r = mean radius [mm] t = wall thickness [mm] Enter p, r and t to calculate sigma_h.
Assumptions
- Thin-wall assumption valid (r/t > 10)
- Uniform internal pressure
- Closed-ended cylinder
- Linear-elastic material
- No local discontinuity effects
Limitations
For r/t < 10, use the Lame equations. This formula gives the nominal membrane stress away from discontinuities. At nozzles, junctions and supports, local stress concentrations must be assessed separately.