Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) in Natural Gas pipelines

Abstract

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a critical failure mechanism affecting natural gas pipelines' structural integrity and operational reliability. This study presents a simulation-based MATLAB analysis to model stress distribution, crack propagation dynamics, and temperature-dependent corrosion rates within steel pipeline systems. The results indicate that the highest hoop stress concentrations occur near the inner pipe radius, where SCC initiation is most likely. Crack growth exhibits exponential acceleration once the critical crack length of 0.008 meters is reached, with failure predicted to occur in under 9 microseconds at 125 MPa hoop stress. Furthermore, simulation results show that elevated temperatures reduce corrosion rates, effectively extending pipeline service life. These findings are consistent with Paris Law and Arrhenius-based modelling, offering a predictive framework for time-to-failure estimation under varying thermal and mechanical conditions. The integrated modelling approach developed in this research provides a practical decision-making tool for power system engineers, enabling condition-based maintenance, failure forecasting, and improved gas transmission infrastructure operational resilience. The study underscores the importance of integrating environmental monitoring and real-time structural simulation in SCC mitigation strategies.