Influence of sand movement in the Sahara on the erosion of pipeline network

Abstract

The influence of sandblasting on a surface notched of pipeline with API 5L X52 steel is studied. The purpose of this study is to determine the evolution of static characteristics and lifetime of material in both directions of pipeline (Longitudinal (L) and Transverse (T)). Specimens were taken from a pipeline and the material damage was made by projecting corundum particles (aluminium oxide). In order to justify the evolution of mechanical properties of material, residual stress analysis was realized by the technique of X-ray diffraction. The observation of damage mode and distribution of residual stress under the notch tip show that the material hardening, the notch radius and the compressive stress, play together an important role in stabilizing the material mechanical properties.