Design curves for oceanographic pressure-resistant housings

Abstract

Curves have been prepared to serve as a guide in designing externally pressurized cylindrical and spherical housings and flat end closures. The plots show wall thickness-to-diameter ratio as a function of collapse depth over the range 0-10,000 meters (0-32,800 feet). Curves are plotted for the commonly used stainless steels and aluminum and titanium alloys. Also, there are three dimensionless curves that can be used for any structural material. Included is a brief review of the equations used in plotting the curves.