Question

In a thick cylinder pressurized from inside, the hoop stress is maximum at :

• A. The outer radius
• B. The inner radius
• C. Both the inner and the outer radii
• D. The centre of the wall thickness

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The inner radius

In a thick-walled cylinder subjected to internal pressure, the hoop stress distribution varies across the wall thickness. According to the principles of mechanical engineering and stress analysis, the hoop stress reaches its maximum value at the inner radius. This is due to the fact that the internal pressure directly acts on the inner surface, creating the highest tensile stress in this region. As one moves towards the outer radius, the hoop stress gradually decreases. Therefore, the critical location for the maximum hoop stress in a thick- walled cylinder is at the inner radius.