Stress modeling of pipelines strengthened with advanced composites materials

Fiber reinforced polymer composites (FRPC) have established a strong positi on as an effective mean for the repair and rehabilitation of infrastructure . However, the use of FRP in the repair and rehabilitation of pipelines is a new concept that has the potential to improve the way we repair pipelines . The purpose of this paper is to discuss the benefits of using FRPC and to provide stress expressions on the interaction between the different stress es exerted on pipe walls and the effects of FRPC sheets on the circumferent ial stresses of damaged pipe walls. The effects of three different FRPC she ets: Glass FRP (GFRP), Aramid FRP (AFRP), and Carbon FRP (CFRP) on the perf ormance of pipe walls will be compared analytically. Results show that carb on fiber composites perform better than glass or aramid in improving the ul timate internal pressure capacity of pipes, and therefore, significantly en hance the strength, durability, and corrosive properties. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.