Crack Assessment

The Integral / Crack Assessment software performs probabilistic assessments using the PRCI MAT-8 fracture model. The MAT-8 model represents the best available technology to predict fatigue and burst pressure in pipe joints with longitudinal cracks.

Operators can use the software to optimize their crack integrity management by:

  • Reducing risk from seam weld anomalies in low toughness vintage pipe, where other models have been found to over-predict burst pressure capacity

  • Reducing cost by avoiding unnecessary digs, particularly for blunt seam weld flaws

  • Quantifying the benefits of maintenance actions, such as pressure changes, hydrostatic pressure tests and in-line inspections

 
 
 

Recently, this model has been updated with these new capabilities:

  • Assess realistic crack front profiles for better accuracy

  • Predict the onset of sharpening for blunt seam weld flaws (ex. lack-of-fusion features) to reduce conservatism

  • Incorporate crack geometries that deviate from the hoop stress plane (ex. hook cracks)

 

The probabilistic simulations account all sources of uncertainty, including:

  • Measurement uncertainty

  • Variability in pipe properties

  • Uncertainty in crack sharpening and growth over time

 

Contact us for a free trial or to learn more.

The Integral / Crack Assessment software is developed in collaboration with TL Anderson Consulting.

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