December 2018, Vol. 245, No. 12
Features
Assuring Integrity of Polyethylene Gas Pipeline Systems
By Chris O’Connor and Richard Beedell, DNV GL, Oil & Gas Polyethylene (PE) revolutionized low-pressure gas distribution pipeline design on a global basis. Its unique benefits make it a material of choice. To maximize benefits, gas transporters continue to push the PE design envelope with more demanding applications, larger pipe diameters and higher operating pressures. Image 1: Simulated RCP failure – ISO 13478 full-scale chilled trench test. (All photos: DNV GL) Rapid crack propagation (RCP) is sometimes referred to as a “fast brittle fracture” or as a “linear split” by the construction industry. RCP is caused by the forced introd

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