Stress analysis method for the large excavation of a river-crossing oil pipeline--A case study of Baiyang river oil pipeline

Abstract

The primary cause of pipeline failure for the crossing oil pipeline is the accumulation of stress. However, there are very few research worked on the stress analysis of large excavation river-crossing oil pipelines. Nevertheless, in order to ensure that the pipeline is safe and sustainable, a stress analysis under operating conditions is necessary. In this study, we perform a numerical simulation of the Baiyang river oil pipeline with a large excavation using the finite element stress analysis software CAESAR II in which the pipeline’s stress distribution is analyzed. Through the engineering case study, we determined that under operating conditions the maximum stress is generated at the saddle weight, which indicates that this section of the river-crossing pipeline is the most dangerous. Through analysis and comparison of the Primary Stress, Secondary Stress and Equivalent Combined Stress, it was determined that the temperature difference is the primary factor for generating stress in an oil pipeline, whereas the internal pressure plays a lesser role in stress generation. After the factors affecting pipeline stress are analyzed, the results are translated into feasible solutions for engineering application, which will promote the sustainability and safety of oil transportation pipelines.