A comprehensive stress analysis in a functionally graded spherical pressure vessel: Thermo-elastic, elastoplastic and residual stress analysis

Analyzing thermoelastic, elastoplastic, and residual stresses is pivotal for deepening our insights into material characteristics, particularly in the engineering of advanced materials like functionally graded materials (FGM). This research delves into these stress types within a thick-walled sphere composed of Al-SiC FGM, employing a detailed successive approximation method (SAM) to pinpoint stress distributions under varied loading scenarios. Our investigation centers on how the sphere's structure responds to different magnitudes of internal pressure. We discover that under various states— thermoelastic, elastoplastic, and residual—the radial stresses are adversely impacted, manifesting negative values due to the compressive nature induced by internal pressures. Notably, the occurrence of reverse yielding, observed at pressures above 410 MPa, merits attention due to its significant implications on the sphere's structural integrity and operational efficacy. Employing the SAM allows us to methodically explore the nuanced shifts in material properties across the sphere's thickness. This study not only highlights the critical behaviors of Al-SiC FGM spheres under stress but also emphasizes the need to consider reverse yielding phenomena to maintain safety and reliability in their application. We advocate for ongoing refinement of analytical techniques to further our understanding of stress behaviors in various FGM configurations, which could drive the optimized design and practical application of these innovative materials in diverse engineering fields.