2.4.

3 Stephens, Bubenik, Leis, et al

Bubenik [19] showed that finite element analysis can be used to predict the load carrying
capacity of corroded pipes. Comparisons between FEA and over 80 burst tests showed that
failure stresses were well over yield. It was also concluded that load redistribution is dependent
on geometry and strain hardening and is more significant for small deep corroded regions than
for large corrosion regions.
Stephens [20] conducted research with full scale testing and FEA on the failure of corroded
pipe subjected to internal pressure and axial loading. For pipe defects subjected only to internal
pressure, defect width was of secondary importance to defect length and depth. For pipe defects
subject to combined axial and pressure loads, defect width is significant, and results indicated
that axial loads increased the combined von Mises stress in the pipe, resulting in lower failure
pressure. Interaction of separated defects was also examined. The interaction of separated
defects is dependant on the defect size. Small defects have small interaction length and large
defects have large interaction lengths. Axial spaced defects increase the stresses when
compared to an isolated defect, which may decrease failure pressure. Circumferentially spaced
defects decrease the stresses when compared to an isolated defect, which may increase failure
pressure. This study was also used in the development of PCORR. The PCORR analytic model
uses traditional finite element analysis applied to local thin areas in pipelines.
Stephens [21] compared some of the prominent LTA assessment methods to determine the
most accurate method. Methods used in the comparison were B31.G, modified B31.G,
RSTRENG, Chell, Kanninen, Ritchie, Sims, and API 579. Conclusions showed the API 579
method to have the least variability. The modified B31.G, RSTRENG, and Chell methods also
had small variability.
Stephens [22], [23], [24], [25], [26] has investigated the fundamental mechanisms driving
failure of pipeline corrosion defects. The research involved three phases: development of an
analytic model known as PCORR, comparative evaluation of material and defect geometry
variables controlling failure, and development of a simple closed form failure assessment