External surface cracked offshore pipes reinforced with composite repair system: A numerical analysis

This paper conducts a numerical analysis on the external surface cracked steel pipes reinforced with Composite Repair System. A three-dimensional finite element (FE) model is developed to calculate Stress Intensity Factor (SIF) of crack, and crack growth process evaluated by Paris’ law. The effect FRP-to-steel interfacial bond condition SIF evaluation has been considered incorporating cohesive zone modelling. Then FE validated experimental results. Thereafter, major issues including “interfacial condition” “reinforcement effectiveness influential parameters” have discussed. results indicate reinforcement reducing owes decreasing stress magnitude crack-bridging effect. Because effect, composite performs more efficiently at point than deepest crack. negative influence not as significant reinforcing through-thickness cracks. However, since stiffness sensitive adhesive thickness, choosing an ideal thickness acquire good avoid potential failures recommended.