L51691 Fracture Control Technology for Natural Gas Pipelines

Operational integrity of gas-transmission pipelines is a goal of all operators. Pipeline integrity is achieved by planning, controlling, and monitoring a number of elements, all of which contribute to the total pipeline system integrity. Elements that affect overall pipeline integrity are pipeline design, pipe specification, pipe transportation and handling, pipeline construction and inspection, preservice testing, and operation and maintenance practices. Fracture control is part of a number of these elements. This research report and software satisfies the industry need for a comprehensive description of the methods of preventing and controlling fracture initiation and propagation. An ideal goal of any fracture control plan would be to specify pipe characteristics that would only result in leaks in a pipeline regardless of the flaw size and type. This is not possible because even infinitely tough pipe can rupture if a large enough flaw is introduced. Thus, fracture control plans must balance both initiation resistance and propagation resistance. This comprehensive research report and software provides guidance and references for creation of a fracture control and/or total pipeline integrity plan.