The development and validation of a dynamic fracture propagation model for gas transmission pipelines

• Published in: The International journal of pressure vessels and piping Vol. 70; no. 1; pp. 11 - 25
• Main Authors: O'Donoghue, P.E., Kanninen, M.F., Leung, C.P., Demofonti, G., Venzi, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 1997; Elsevier
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Energy; Exact sciences and technology; Fuels; Gas industry; Gas transmission and distribution. Ships. Pipelines. Distribution networks. Compressors stations; Gases; Mathematical models; Q1; Gas pipeline; Fracture mechanics; Theoretical study; Numerical simulation; Ductile fracture; Dynamic model; Crack propagation; Fracture toughness
• ISSN: 0308-0161; 1879-3541
• DOI: 10.1016/S0308-0161(96)00012-9

A fracture control methodology that will prevent the possibility of long-running crack propagation, based on the crack-tip opening angle (CTOA) is outlined here. Two aspects are considered: (1) the calculation of the maximum CTOA for a given geometry and loading and (2) the determination of the critical material property for fracture, (CTOA) c. The vehicle for CTOA calculations was a fluid/structure/fracture interaction inelastic dynamic computational model for fast long-running fracture in pipelines. Validation of the approach used in this analysis was provided through quantitative comparisons with measured full-scale burst test data. A convenient two-specimen dropweight tear test was used to determine the (CTOA) c for line pipe steels. The linking of the latter with the quantification of a maximum CTOA for steady-state ductile fracture, using the numerical model, provides the basis for an approach that evaluates the conditions needed to ensure crack arrest.