Calculation of temperature distribution on structure by using temperature boundary conditions and film coefficients
Thermal stresses could occur due to the thermal expansion in the heated structures. In order to perform a thermal stress analysis, first the temperature distribution on the structure should be calculated. An analysis to calculate the temperature distribution on the structure by using the temperature boundary conditions and film coefficients is called as "Thermal Analysis".
In some ships which transport heated or cooled cargoes, the heated or cooled internal tank structure could be integrated (not separated internal tanks) to the main ship structure. In that case, unstable temperature distribution can occur due to heat difference and serious thermal induced stresses could occur.
After the temperature distribution is calculated, this distribution is applied to the structure as loading and therefore thermal stress analysis can be obtained.