Analysis of the efficiency of corroded pressure vessels with composite repair – Part II

Abstract

This paper is part of a research project concerning the efficiency of composite repair in corroded metallic pressure vessels. The focus is to evaluate localized repairs in corroded areas near nozzles. Numerical results indicate that vessel failure occurs due to detachment of the composite from the steel and loss of repair efficiency. The numerical results were validated against experimental tests. 50% thickness reduction defects were manufactured into full-scale metallic vessels and the failure pressure of the repaired vessels was determined using hydrostatic tests. Two companies, with expertise in repairing metallic structures using composite materials, were contracted and the results of the laminations made by both were compared. The repair proved to be effective since the burst pressures exceeded the hydrostatic test pressure by more than three times.