Numerical modelling and comparison of SIF in pipelines exposed to internal pressure with longitudinal crack using XFEM method

This study investigates the feasibility of using the extended finite element method (XFEM) in the ABAQUS commercial software, employing the maximum principal stress as the damage parameter. The primary objective of this work is to calculate the mode I stress intensity factor, a key parameter for understanding the crack initiation mechanisms in pressurized pipelines. Initially, an analysis of Von Mises stresses was conducted, followed by a theoretical calculation of stress intensity factors based on analytical methods from the literature. The results were compared with those obtained from numerical simulations using XFEM. Validation of the findings was also carried out by benchmarking them against previous studies employing the classical finite element method (FEM). Additionally, various parameters, such as internal pressure and initial crack length, were examined to assess their impact on the fatigue behavior of the structure. The numerical and analytical results demonstrated strong agreement, highlighting the robustness of the XFEM approach for the analysis of cracked structures. This study aims to enhance the understanding of longitudinal crack initiation mechanisms in pipelines to facilitate the development of a proactive maintenance strategy that ensures their durability and reliability.