Re: How can I calculate the stress force applied to a T joint?

Dave,
I visualize your application per the illustration below. The expansion tank, 
and its contents, is attached to the T joint. The expansion tank is not 
supported.

Calculate the total force applied to the stress points:
Tank = 16 lb.  Distance from center of tank to center of stub = 10"  = 160 
in/lb.
Water = 8.33 lb.   Distance from center of water to center of stub = 5" = 
41.6 in/lb.
Total force = 201.6 in/lb.
Force applied to each stress point = (201.6/2) = 100.8 in/lb.

A perspective for this amount of force: The recommended torque for a _" 
machine screw is 120 in/lbs. (1).


Ref. (1) www.night rider.com/biketech/hdtorquevalues.htm