

- #Structural integrity software#
- #Structural integrity code#
- #Structural integrity series#
- #Structural integrity crack#
When an internal pipe surface is exposed to high-pressure hydrogen or a high-pressure mixture of hydrogen and natural gas, hydrogen gas can disassociate into hydrogen atoms, which can then be adsorbed into the steel and lead to material property degradation (such as reduced fracture resistance). Hydrogen is known to have an embrittling effect on carbon steels, such as those used in gas transmission pipelines. Fracture toughness reduction as a function of hydrogen partial pressure for different pipe grades.
#Structural integrity code#
ASME Code Case 2938 was reviewed and empirically fit with the analyzed data.įigure 2. Data exhibited a significant increase in FCG rates (Figure 1) at relatively low hydrogen blend levels. Over 2,200 data points were compiled and analyzed to develop trend curves and associated statistical variability. These sample systems were exposed to equivalent hydrogen blend levels of 5%, 10%, 20%, and 100%. To gather the most relevant information possible, the project team compiled and analyzed data from numerous client-specific FCG tests of samples taken from the pipeline system in the targeted environment. Significant research exists on the effect of hydrogen on FCG of pipeline steels and was referenced in this exercise. The process also assigned priorities for future research that may be needed to support that objective. The PIRT panel reviewed all known pipeline integrity threats and identified potential unknown or unexpected threats that could be influenced by the presence of hydrogen in the operator’s transmission pipeline system. FCG rate curves in hydrogen (solid lines) versus air (dashed lines).
#Structural integrity series#
A vital part of the process was a series of meetings conducted with the pipeline operator, systematically identifying and ranking the importance of various phenomena that could adversely affect the safety and reliability of energy transportation through the operator’s existing transmission pipeline system.įigure 1.

To ensure a thorough and accurate PIRT was completed, a panel consisting of experts in metallurgy, fracture mechanics, hydrogen effects on steel properties, and pipeline operations was assembled.
#Structural integrity software#
Implementing a joint industry project (JIP) to adapt SI’s APTITUDE software tool for evaluating predicted failure pressure (PFP) and remaining life resulting from SCC and FCG in a hydrogen blend environment.Īs part of a systemwide evaluation for one of our clients, a large North American Pipeline Operator, a critical threat review using a PIRT process was conducted to comprehensively understand the potential impact of hydrogen blending on steel natural gas transmission pipeline integrity.Analyzing the impact of FCG and hydrogen embrittlement on the probability of rupture (POR) due to key threats such as stress corrosion cracking (SCC), longitudinal seam weld defects, and hard spots.Developing a statistical model for evaluating reduced fracture resistance (hydrogen embrittlement).
#Structural integrity crack#

