This paper provides results of inelastic stress analysis for a vessel-nozzle intersection with intermediate diameter ratio (dlD = 0.526) under increasing internal pressure loading from experimental and non-linear finite element methods. The determination of the limit load due to internal pressure is performed by an experimental study for comparison with finite element analysis.The spread of plastic area for the analytical model vessel is provided.Also a burst test of the model vessel is carried out to provide some data to justify the existing design method and the basis for developing an advanced design guideline for shell intersections under internal pressure loadine.⑥ 2002 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.