Crack Defect Tolerance in High Pressure Piping Components - DM9

Description Mechanical components may contain flaws or cracks due to manufacturing processes or damage during operation. This project considers high pressure piping components used to transport fluids and fluid-solid mixtures in Oil and Gas industry applications. Damage in piping components can be identified by non-destructive examination methods. When flaws or cracks are detected, a Fracture Mechanics assessment is required to determine if the component is fit for further use or if it should be withdrawn from service. The project is suitable for a student interested in structural integrity assessment, fracture mechanics and advanced FEA. Key Objectives The key objectives of the project are to: Research/review fracture mechanics assessment methods, including conventional Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM) and Finite Element Analysis approaches. Perform LEFM assessment of cylindrical piping components containing flaws of specific geometry, location and orientation using standard LEFM methods and solutions. Perform FEA analysis for specific configurations. Determine flaw tolerance limits for given operating conditions.