Battelle announces axial crack detection software for oil, gas pipelines
Battelle, a Columbus, Ohio-based independent research and development organization, recently released PipeAssess PI Axial Crack Software, a program for detecting axial cracks in oil and gas pipelines.
The system utilizes various simulation elements, such as user-define hydrostatic tests, operating pressure profiles and attribute inputs including pipe geometry, material properties and crack geometry.
PipeAssess provides modeling and prediction for axial crack development in standard line-pipe sizes and grades, which includes pipes made of brittle, quasi-brittle and ductile steels.
The software considers various factors that could influence crack growth including time-dependent cracking during hydrostatic tests and fatigue cracking as a result of pressure cycles.
It can also be used to estimate safety margin and crack size after a hydrostatic test, as well as optimize hydrostatic test design and guide re-inspection intervals. The system can support Maximum Operating Pressure rating and can be used to inform repair and replace decisions, as well as field inspection schedules.
