Stress Indices for Circumferential Fillet Welded and Socket Welded Joints

This paper presents the results of an investigation of the Stress Indices for circumferential fillet welded or socket welded joints which are required for ASME Section III Class 1 systems. The history or background of the basis of the various indices is reviewed and summarized. New values for the indices are suggested based on new test data and analysis. These changes will result in a more accurate evaluation of circumferential fillet welded or socket welded joints.