Slide Plate Weld Angle Optimization for Tank Trailer Hopper Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bulk tankers experience frequent weld breakage in slide plates due to internal pressurization, leading to inefficiencies in particulate material discharge.
Innovation Solution
A tank trailer design featuring a slide plate configuration with a specific weld angle of no greater than 45 degrees between the slide plate and end housing inner surface, enhancing structural integrity and reducing weld stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If slide plates are used in bulk tankers for particulate material discharge, then material flow is facilitated, but weld breakage occurs due to internal pressurization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the weld joint by specifying that the slide plate outer surface and end housing inner surface form an angle of no greater than 45 degrees. This parameter modification optimizes stress distribution at the weld interface, reducing weld breakage while maintaining material discharge functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different geometric characteristics to different regions of the slide plate assembly. Specifically, the outer surface geometry is optimized with angular constraints relative to the end housing, creating localized stress distribution patterns that protect the weld joints from excessive stress during pressurization
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional slide plate designs are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but weld breakage is frequent under pressurization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the slide plate assembly, specifically constraining the angle between the slide plate outer surface and end housing inner surface to no greater than 45 degrees. This parameter change improves weld durability by distributing stress more effectively, while still maintaining relatively straightforward manufacturing processes
Data Source
AI summary
A tank trailer may include a hopper, an end housing forward or rearward of the hopper, and a slide plate inside the end housing. The slide plate may be configured to help prevent breakage along welds which secure the slide plate.