Quote Originally Posted by Stazi View Post
Get gussets out on around the flange (like my pic) to strengthen the connection.

Otherwise it will crack.


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I would increase the flange circumference and thickness, plus add gussets like Stazi said. A single gusset at the top for compression force, and two on the bottom thirds to manage tension. Stainless welds handle tension well, but compression not so good. Explains the micro-fissures on the upper weld surface. If you don't oppose that compression force with tension (place two gussets under compression and one under tension) the welds on the compressed gussets will crack again. Add heat and moisture into that space and you'll get 970 times the expansion when that moisture turns to water vapor.