Effect of the Yield to Tensile Ratio on Structural Integrity of Line Pipes Subjected to Bending Loads

Abstract

This work studies the effect of the yield (Y) to tensile (T) ratio, Y∕T, on the structural integrity of line pipes with part through the thickness (PTT) circumferential defects subject to bend loading. A model based on elastic-plastic fracture mechanics and plasticity theory was developed for that purpose. The analysis handles situation with load or deformation control conditions. The results are shown in terms of curves of critical defect size versus the controlling variable, i.e., load or deformation. For each one of the different materials studied, cases with different Y∕T values were considered. Even for the lower limits of experimental data, i.e., larger Y∕T, the materials have adequate defect tolerance. A leak before break analysis of a PTT circumferential defect growing into a through the thickness defect growing circumferentially was performed.