Strength Performance Evaluations of Vehicle Cylindrical LPG Tanks

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This study aims to examine and compare the strength performances of vehicle cylindrical liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks produced and used in Turkey, taking into account European and Turkish Standards. The LPG tanks were subjected to burst and fatigue tests to explore their burst pressures and fatigue performances using both experimental and computer aided techniques. To investigate the strength of the tanks, a universal test bench was developed and calibrated for use in both burst and fatigue tests. The obtained experimental results in terms of burst and fatigue failure locations for each brand of tank are compared with the results obtained using finite element based simulations. Visual solid models in 3D were drawn in SolidWorks and then ANSYS software was used to perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations on those LPG cylinders to obtain the results, such as stresses, deformations, burst and fatigue failure locations. As a result of this comparison, it has been observed that some brands of cylindrical LPG tanks are more durable and safe for use in vehicles. Since the same standard requirements and the same commercial material are used in LPG tank production, it is revealed that some companies need to reconsider their design, manufacturing and especially welding processes. The results of this independent and objective study can also be used as a warning for LPG tank manufacturers and as a guide for their customers in choosing a safe product.