Evaluation of the Structural Integrity of Bell-Spigot Joints in Steel Gas Pipelines
Abstract The most common joining method in steel gas pipelines is welding; however, this method involves time-consuming, expensive manufacturing and assembly processes to ensure quality in operation. Bell-Spigot joints, which work by mechanical interference, have started to be used as an alternative joining method in steel pipes. Its use has increased due to its reduced assembly time and less post-assembly inspection requirements. In this paper, the structural performance of Bell-Spigot joints in 16-inch steel pipe API 5L X70 with Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) coating for Natural Gas transmission pipeline are evaluated experimentally and by modeling. Test pieces were taken from the gas pipeline after 3 years of operation. Then, tensile pull-out and bending with hydrostatic pressure tests were performed to replicate operating conditions. Deformations, displacements, and the potential presence of leaks were monitored. Experimental results were compared with a Finite Element Method model. Finally, an analytical model for the calculation of stresses and strains in the joint system's components was developed. It was determined that the tightness of the joint depends mainly on the radial interference and the interference length. A higher safety factor can be obtained at the bell-spigot joint than the base pipeline by optimizing selection of joint design variables and the service loading conditions. If the interference pressure is lower than half of the operation pressure, the joint's mechanical strength will be higher or equal that the base pipe.