SCF Equations for T/Y and K Square-to-Round Tubular Joint

Abstract

A parametric stress analysis of T/Y and K square-to-round tubular joints subjected to axial loads and in-plane and out-of-plane bending moments has been performed with the finite-element technique. Twenty-two and 26 sets of geometric parameters were used for the study of T/Y and K joints, respectively. This study was carried out to provide a sound basis for using square tubular sections in the design of offshore structures. The results of this analysis are presented as a set of 21 equations expressing the stress concentration factor (SCF) as a function of the relevant geometric parameters for various loading conditions. A comparison is made between the results obtained for square-to-round tubular joints and those obtained for round-to-round tubular joints and for square-to-square tubular joints. In general, the SCF's obtained from square-to-round tubular joints are closest to those of the corresponding round-to-round tubular joints than those of the corresponding square-to-square tubular joints.