Uncertainty in the Estimation of Partial Safety Factors for Different Steel-Grade Corroded Pipelines

Abstract

This paper assesses the uncertainty of the partial safety factors for the design of corroded pipelines against burst failure due to the variability associated with the strength model selection. First, 10 calibrated burst pressure prediction models for corroded pipelines are adopted and duly categorised under low-, medium- and high-grade steel classes. The probabilistic characteristics of the pipe burst strength are studied using Monte Carlo simulation for the selected models. Model uncertainty factors are used to correct the burst pressure predictions by the design equations. Model strength factors are derived for models in each category that will provide coherent reliability. The first-order reliability method is employed to estimate the partial safety factors and their uncertainty as a function of operational time. Finally, the influence of the corrosion growth model on the evaluation of partial safety factors is assessed. The results obtained in this study can provide vital guidance regarding the design and maintenance of different steel-grade pipelines.