Effect of Weld Geometry on Mis-Match Limit Load Analyses for Circumferential Surface Cracked Pipes in the Centre of Welds Available to Purchase

The weld metal compared to the base metal, is known to be more vulnerable to cracking. Thus, the strength mismatch limit load analysis is necessary for defect assessment. In our previous paper, closed-form solutions of mis-match limit loads were proposed for idealized butt weld configuration as a function of the strength mis-match ratio with geometry-related slenderness parameter. The actual weld geometry is not idealized band configuration but shape of V-grooved welds. The surface crack is more common and significant than through wall crack. The present work provides mis-match limit loads for circumferential surface cracked pipes in the centre of V-groove welds using finite element (FE) analysis. Various crack depth (a/t=0.35∼0.8) and groove angles (20°∼90°) are considered for systematic investigation. With regards to loading conditions, axial tension is applied for all cases.