Independent research and development organization Battelle (Columbus, Ohio) recently released its PipeAssess PI Axial Crack Software, designed for oil and gas pipeline companies to meet critical industry requirements and simplify decision-making.
The software is a customizable alternative to traditional software, the company explains. It incorporates simulation elements such as user-defined hydrostatic tests, operating pressure profiles, and attribute inputs (such as pipe geometry, material properties, and crack geometry) to provide more complete and accurate life predictions.
The software offers reliable, physics-based modeling and prediction for axial crack growth in standard linepipe sizes and grades, including pipes made of brittle, quasi-brittle, and ductile steels. It considers multiple mechanisms for crack growth, such as time-dependent cracking during hydrostatic tests and fatigue cracking due to pressure cycles.
According to the company, the software aids pipeline integrity management by estimating safety margin, estimating crack sizes after a hydrostatic test, optimizing hydrostatic test design, guiding re-inspection intervals, supporting the maximum operating pressure rating, and informing users on repair/replace decisions and field inspection schedules.
A demo of the software is now available for users to download at the company’s web site.
Source: Battelle, battelle.org.