Limit analysis based on a modified elastic compensation method for nozzle-to-cylinder junctions

To address the computational difficulties of the elastic compensation method (ECM) for complex structures such as nozzle-to-cylinder junctions, this paper develops a modified elastic compensation method (MECM). This method improves the precision of the ECM while preserving the advantages such as simplicity and high efficiency. Limit loads are calculated for three representative examples. The calculated solutions are compared with results from the elastic-plastic analysis method and the twice-elastic slope method. It is found that the MECM can provide a good estimation of plastic limit loads for complex structures.