What is the ASME formula for cylindrical pressure vessel thickness?

t = PR / (SE - 0.6P), where t is minimum thickness (in), P is design pressure (psi), R is inside radius (in), S is allowable stress (psi) from ASME Section II Part D tables, and E is joint efficiency (0.6–1.0 depending on weld examination per ASME VIII Div.1 UW-12).

What safety factor does the ASME code use?

ASME Section VIII Division 1 uses a design factor of 3.5 on ultimate tensile strength (for pre-2000 code) or 3.5 on tensile and 1.5 on yield strength for the allowable stress basis. Division 2 (alternative rules) uses a design factor of 3.0, allowing thinner walls with more rigorous analysis.

Pressure Vessel Wall Thickness (ASME) Calculator

Calculate minimum required wall thickness for cylindrical pressure vessels per ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Division 1.

2D stress state at a point. All stresses in MPa.

σx — Normal Stress X (MPa)

σy — Normal Stress Y (MPa)

τxy — Shear Stress (MPa)

⚙ Mechanical Note: Results are based on standard textbook formulas and ISO/AASHTO references. Always verify critical designs with applicable codes (ISO 898, AASHTO 1993, AISC, Eurocode 3) and a qualified engineer.

How to Use

Enter the values for the patient or scenario you are assessing. Calculate minimum required wall thickness for cylindrical pressure vessels per ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Division 1. Use the pressure vessel thickness result to inform your clinical assessment.

Related Calculators

Nozzle Throat Area

Engineering

Venturi Meter Flow

Engineering

Orifice Plate Flow

Engineering

Pressure Vessel Wall Thickness (ASME) Calculator

How to Use

Related Calculators

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ASME formula for cylindrical pressure vessel thickness?

What safety factor does the ASME code use?