Author(s)

P.E. O'Donoghue & Z. Zhuang

Abstract

This paper describes the use of the finite element method to simulate the Small-Scale Steady State (S4) test for the dynamic crack propagation in a gas pipeline. In this test, a containment cage is placed outside the pipe to limit the deformation. A moving boundary condition model to simulate the pipe wall contact with the containment cage behind the crack tip has been developed. Using the results obtained from these calculations, we can examine the S4 test and determine dynamic fracture resistance of material. This in turn can be used to predict the critical pressure in a full-scale pipe. Results of this type will be of considerable practical importance to the gas industry. 1. Introduction. Of critical importance in dynamic fracture mechanics is the calculation the crack driving force, G, for

Keywords