Evolution and Synthesis of the Effective Elastic Constants Concept for the Design of Tubesheets

Abstract

Abstract The simplest way to take into account the weakening effect of holes in a multiperforated plate is to replace it by an equivalent solid one with adjusted “effective elastic constants.” This paper intends to show how this concept has evolved since 1948 to the present by providing a thorough review and comparison of papers dealing with this subject. A special item is devoted to square pattern problem. Curves for calculating effective elastic constants E* and ν* are proposed which enable treatment of even perforated plates, circular or not, as solid ones for which the classical equations of elasticity apply. These curves have been adopted in the French Pressure Vessel Code (CODAP) for the design of tubesheets.