Consolidated Project Full Scale Testing of Interactive Features for Improved Models

Overview

Main Objective

This project addresses pipeline crack growth as influenced by complex operational circumstances by expanding on existing work performed through PHMSA and Pipeline Research Council International, Inc. (PRCI). Through full scale testing, the team will gather data on mechanical damage interacting with secondary features – gouges (with cracks and micro-cracks), corrosion, and welds. The team will create a database which will be used by others to validate and improve burst and fatigue strength models. The team will also gather experimental data to estimate when cracks in stress corrosion cracking (SCC) colonies coalesce. The project will improve knowledge on the influence of complex loadings on both mechanical damage exposed to environmentally assisted cracking (EAC) or to combined pressure and high axial strains, and on crack growth dynamics of SCC. The primary objectives of the project are to strengthen industry consensus standards and to generate data which will promote new knowledge. The benefits of the program will improve safety and environmental protection by filling critical knowledge gaps on pipeline response to crack growth in mechanical damage and SCC as driven by complex loads and interacting threats.

Public Abstract

Electricore, in partnership with BMT Fleet, GDF SUEZ, and PRCI, for this PHMSA sponsored consolidated project. The primary goals of this project are to generate data and promote new knowledge for strengthening industry consensus standards. Through full scale testing, the project will create a database which will improve knowledge on the influence of complex loadings on both mechanical damage exposed to environmentally assisted cracking or to combined pressure and high axial strains, and on crack growth dynamics of stress corrosion cracking. Based on the highly-qualified and accomplished industry team with a successful record in past projects completed, the consolidated program has a very high likelihood of success.

Relevant Files & Links