Numerical Simulation of Residual Stresses in Pressure Tube Rolled Joints of Indian Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor

In the present work, residual stresses of Indian PHWR pressure tube rolled joint are predicted by a numerical simulation. The Finite Element Model takes into account the contact pressure between pressure tube and end fitting. The actual variation of radial clearance is incorporated in the model statistically from the data generated on different batches of pressure tube end fitting experimental assembly. Two elastic-plastic material models-with and without strain hardening are presented in the present analysis. The numerical results are compared with the experimental measurements of residual stress. (authors)