Nonlinear Analysis of Pipe Bends Subjected to Out-of-Plane Moment Loading and Internal Pressure

Abstract

The behavior of a pipe bend, with bend factor h=0.1615(D=16 in.,R=24 in. and t=0.41 in.), subjected to out-of-plane bending and internal pressure is studied, taking geometric and material nonlinearity into account, using the finite element code ABAQUS. Material behavior is taken as elastic-perfectly plastic. The distribution of stress and strain along the axial direction and across the thickness of the bend is studied, with and without internal pressure, at the onset of yielding and at instability. Before instability is reached, through-the-thickness yielding appears at many points. The loaded end of the bend is found to be the most severely strained cross section. The circumferential distribution of stress and strain, and its variation with increased moment loading are then investigated for that section, at internal pressure values of zero and 1200 psi.