Abstract
There is a need for ASME B&PV Code procedures and acceptance criteria for evaluation of flaws detected by inspection of high density polyethylene (HDPE) piping items in safety Class 3 systems. To support the development of flaw acceptance criteria for butt fusion joints in HDPE pipes, a series of coupon tests have been completed for specimens cut from butt fused HDPE pipes with surface or subsurface flaws placed in the joints prior to fusion process. Specimens containing known flaw sizes were tested under axial load at accelerated stresses and temperatures until failure; or until a prescribed number of test hours was reached. The failure time from the tests has been correlated to the net section stress and the stress intensity factor, and the results showed that the failure time can be better represented by the stress intensity factor. The test results were then used to fit the Brown and Lu formula that predicts the time to failure due to the slow crack growth of flaws as a function of stress intensity factor and temperature. With the developed Brown and Lu equation, the allowable stress intensity factors for a piping lifetime of 50 years at the maximum code allowable temperature of 60°C have been proposed for both surface and subsurface flaws in HDPE butt fusion joints. Examples of what might be corresponding allowable flaw sizes in the butt fusion joints of piping are also provided.
