Hoop Stress

Hoop stress is the force experienced in a circular object, like a pipe or tank, when internal pressure pushes outward. Imagine inflating a balloon: the balloon’s material must withstand the outward force to prevent bursting. Similarly, hoop stress acts along the circumference of the structure, ensuring it can contain the pressure without tearing. It is calculated based on the internal pressure, the radius of the structure, and the material’s thickness. Understanding hoop stress is essential for designing safe and reliable pressure vessels, ensuring they can withstand operational pressures without failure.