Session: 03-02-01 Fatigue Performance and Testing

Paper Number: 127267

127267 - Optimal Specimen Geometry Selection for Capturing the Effect of Residual Stresses in Girth Weld Fatigue Testing: A Comprehensive Review 

Fatigue testing of girth welds is pivotal for ensuring the structural integrity of various critical infrastructures like oil and gas pipelines, raisers, monopiles, and wind turbine towers. This review article underscores the paramount importance of selecting appropriate test specimen geometry and emphasizes the influence of specimen preparation on the accuracy and reliability of fatigue test results. The significance of accurately replicating real structural configurations in the choice of specimen geometry is highlighted, considering factors such as pipe diameter, wall thickness, weld bead profile, stress concentrations, and residual stresses.

The assessment of stress concentrations and the evaluation of residual stresses are critical aspects in fatigue testing, especially for girth welds and welds in close proximity. Improper specimen geometry selection can lead to inaccurate fatigue life predictions, restricting the practical applicability of test results. Through an extensive literature survey encompassing various girth weld fatigue test specimens, this study aims to identify the optimal specimen geometry for capturing residual stresses in proximity girth welds and testing their impact on fatigue performance.

The review comprehensively analyzes existing research, guidelines, methods, and standards related to fatigue testing of girth welds. It emphasizes the crucial role of correct specimen geometry and testing methods in obtaining reliable and precise fatigue test results. Furthermore, the article outlines the challenges faced in fatigue testing and proposes a framework for selecting optimal sample geometry. Special attention is given to capturing the effects of residual stresses in fatigue performance testing. This study not only highlights the importance of capturing residual stresses in fatigue testing but also addresses the challenges faced, providing valuable insights for researchers and engineers involved in structural integrity assessments.

Presenting Author: Even Englund University of Stavanger (UiS)

Presenting Author Biography: I'm a structural and welding engineer with a versatile background. I have worked as a Structural Engineer in the Oil and Gas industry and currently I'm focusing on my PhD in mechanical engineering at UiS. My main fields of expertise are Finite Element Analysis (FEA), materials science, and welding technology. I also have experience with destructive and non-destructive testing.

Authors:

Even Englund University of Stavanger (UiS)
Chandima Ratnayake Mudiyanselage University of Stavanger (UiS)