Analysis and Behavior of Steel Pipe Welded Lap Joints in Geohazard Areas

Abstract

Using advanced finite element simulation tools, which account for both geometric and material nonlinearities, the bending capacity of welded lap pipeline joints is investigated. Following the analysis of plain pipes, numerical results are reported for two steel typical grade 40 pipes, single-welded or double-welded, with D/t values equal to 150 and 240 respectively. Internal pressure effects are also examined, as well as the effects of bell-spigot gap. The results of the present study focus on the value of local strains developed at critical locations and are aimed at providing better understanding of welded lap joint behavior under extreme bending loading conditions. This may allow for the development of design methodologies in geohazard areas where welded joints are required, in order to safeguard the structural integrity of steel water pipelines imposed to severe ground-induced actions. © 2015 ASCE.