The Gamma Exponent Model (“GEM”) is a recently developed methodology for failure pressure prediction of flaws in oil and gas pipelines. The model has already shown varied applicability for different flaw types.

The focus of this work is axial metal loss flaws and axial stress corrosion cracking (SCC). The basic model is applicable to axial metal loss. The model is then modified to address issues associated with SCC. Specifically, this work demonstrates that a stress intensity factor relevant to periodic crack arrays, as observed in SCC colonies, can be used to account for crack-shielding. This results in more accurate failure predictions.

The model is validated against available laboratory, hydrotest and in-service failure data. Statistical analyses are performed to demonstrate the mathematical form of the new model are valid. Failure pressure predictions are shown to be comparable or better than current industry models.

Subject
Industries, Pipelines, Deviation, Corrosion cracking, Stress cracking, Failure analysis, Stress, Crack depth, Flaws, Mechanical failure, Corrosion modeling, Corrosion data, Stress corrosion cracking
Keywords:
fracture, corrosion management, stress corrosion cracking, risk
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2021
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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