Mansour Boudjelid, Aicha Metehri, Belaϊd Mechab and Bel Abbes Bachir Bouiadjra (DOI: 10.24874/jsscm.2025.19.02.03)

 

Abstract

 

The objective of this study is to investigate the structural response of a steel pipe reducing tee containing a rectangular corrosion defect beneath the crotch region under internal pressure loading. Finite element simulations were conducted to evaluate residual stress distributions resulting from imposed boundary conditions, with particular emphasis on the combined influence of the defect and crotch geometry—both recognized as critical sites for stress concentration and crack initiation. A series of parametric studies examined the effects of internal pressure, defect dimensions, crotch radius, crotch thickness, and the interaction between defect depth and spacing. These parameters were selected to represent conditions of practical relevance in the assessment and design of pressure-bearing pipe connections. The analyses reveal that the presence of a corrosion defect significantly increases stress intensities in the crotch region, whereas increasing both crotch thickness and radius markedly reduces peak stress magnitudes. Furthermore, the interaction between defect depth and spacing exerts a decisive influence on crack propagation. These findings highlight the importance of accurate defect characterization and strategically engineered reinforcement measures to enhance reliability and extend the service life of pipe tee connections.

 

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