For a superheater tube of 100 mm O.D. at 2430 kPa gauge pressure, what is the minimum required wall thickness?

To determine the minimum required wall thickness for a superheater tube subjected to internal pressure, calculations based on the principles of pressure vessel design are used, specifically using the formula derived from the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

In this case, the minimum wall thickness can be calculated using the formula:

[ t = \frac{P \cdot D}{2 \cdot S \cdot E - P} ]

Where:

• ( t ) is the required wall thickness,

• ( P ) is the internal pressure,

• ( D ) is the outer diameter of the tube,

• ( S ) is the allowable stress of the material,

• ( E ) is the weld joint efficiency.

Given the outer diameter (O.D.) of the tube as 100 mm and the gauge pressure of 2430 kPa, the appropriate material properties and safety factors must also be considered to ensure the tube can safely withstand the operating conditions.

The correct answer indicates that a wall thickness of 2.014 mm is sufficiently strong to handle the internal pressure of 2430 kPa under the given conditions. This thickness includes factors for material strength and potential flaws, ensuring a safe and reliable operation of the superheater tube.