Steel pipe under high external pressure

In summary, the conversation discusses a steel tube with specific dimensions and yield limit. The tube is plugged at both ends and subjected to outside pressure due to submersion. The question is whether it will be safe and how to calculate the maximum pressure that would cause catastrophic failure. The person responding suggests using the ASME piping code and mentions a discussion on the topic. They also mention an equivalent European code and note that if this is for an industrial application, structural analysis must comply with the applicable code. The conversation also mentions a specific casing pipe and the possibility of finding it.
  • #1
ptaa32
2
0
Hi,

We have a steel tube with yield limit 1000 N/mm2.
It is 250 mm long, outside diam. is 76 mm, inside diam. is 60 mm.
It is plugged at both ends.
Inside pressure is 0 (zero) and outside pressure due to submersion is 69 Mpa.

Will this be safe?
How can I calculate what pressure that would be 'catastrophic' for the pipe?

Kind regards,

Per-Tore Aasestrand
Bergen, Norway
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Hi Per-Tore, welcome to the board. I would use the ASME piping code to determine safe stresses on externally pressurized pipe. We had a discussion on this here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=532901
If you don't have access to the ASME BPV code, you might consider using Roark's but I always use the ASME code for this and am not familiar with how Roark's does this and I've left my copy at the office.

Edit: I'm sure there's a piping code in Europe which is equivalent to the ASME code in the US. If this is an industrial application, you will be required by law to perform the structural analysis per the applicable European code.
 
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  • #3
Hi,

Thanks for the tip.
It is for a research project, so there is no need for code compliance.
The cylinder will contain some instrumentation, and I only need to know if it will survive the depth. Preferably also what the margins are.
 
  • #4
Casing Pipe 139.7*9.17 , mark C-75

Who can find this casing pipe ?
 
  • #5
Based on the given information, it is possible to calculate the maximum pressure that the steel pipe can withstand before reaching its yield limit. The yield limit of 1000 N/mm2 means that the steel can withstand a maximum stress of 1000 N per square millimeter before it starts to deform permanently.

Using the formula for hoop stress, the maximum pressure that the steel pipe can withstand before reaching its yield limit can be calculated as follows:

Maximum pressure = (yield limit * inner diameter) / (outer diameter - inner diameter)

Substituting the given values, we get:

Maximum pressure = (1000 N/mm2 * 60 mm) / (76 mm - 60 mm) = 1250 N/mm2

This means that the steel pipe can withstand a maximum pressure of 1250 N/mm2 before it starts to deform permanently.

In the given scenario, the outside pressure due to submersion is 69 MPa, which is equivalent to 69,000,000 N/m2. This is well below the maximum pressure that the steel pipe can withstand, indicating that it should be safe under these conditions.

To calculate the pressure that would be 'catastrophic' for the pipe, we would need to know the ultimate tensile strength of the steel used in the pipe. This is the maximum stress that the steel can withstand before it fractures. Once we have this value, we can use the same formula as above to calculate the maximum pressure that the steel pipe can withstand before it reaches its ultimate tensile strength. Any pressure beyond this value would be considered 'catastrophic' for the pipe.

In conclusion, based on the given information, the steel pipe should be safe under the specified conditions. However, it is important to consider the ultimate tensile strength of the steel to determine the maximum pressure that the pipe can withstand before it reaches a catastrophic failure.
 

FAQ: Steel pipe under high external pressure

What is the purpose of using steel pipes under high external pressure?

Steel pipes are used to transport fluids and gases in various industries, and they are also used to carry out structural support in construction projects. When exposed to high external pressure, steel pipes are able to withstand the force and maintain their structural integrity, making them a reliable choice for these applications.

How does the material of the steel pipe affect its performance under high external pressure?

The material of the steel pipe plays a crucial role in its performance under high external pressure. Steel pipes made from high-strength materials, such as carbon steel or alloy steel, are able to withstand higher external pressures compared to pipes made from lower-strength materials. Therefore, it is important to consider the type of material used when selecting a steel pipe for applications where high external pressure is expected.

What factors can cause steel pipes to fail under high external pressure?

There are several factors that can contribute to the failure of steel pipes under high external pressure. These include corrosion, material defects, and improper installation or design. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain steel pipes to identify and address any potential issues before they lead to failure.

How can the strength of a steel pipe be increased to withstand high external pressure?

The strength of a steel pipe can be increased by using thicker walls or higher-strength materials. Additionally, the pipe can be reinforced with additional layers, such as a concrete coating or a fiberglass wrap, to provide extra support and improve its ability to withstand high external pressure.

Are there any standards or regulations for steel pipes under high external pressure?

Yes, there are various standards and regulations that govern the use of steel pipes under high external pressure. These include industry-specific standards, such as API 5L for oil and gas pipelines, as well as international standards, such as ISO 3183. It is important to adhere to these standards and regulations to ensure the safety and reliability of steel pipes under high external pressure.

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