A finite element for thermal stress analysis of shells of revolution

A new finite element is described for performing detailed thermal stress analysis of thin orthotropic shells of revolution. The element provides for temperature loadings which may vary over the surface of the shell as well as through the thickness. In a number of sample calculations, results from the present method are compared with analytical solutions as well as with independent numerical analyses. Such calculations are carried out for two cylinders, a conical frustum, a truncated hemisphere, and an annular plate. Generally, the agreement between the present solution and the other solutions is excellent.