Effects of composite and metallic patch on the limit load of pressurized steel pipes elbow with internal defects under opening bending moment

Internal and external corrosion are common in pressure pipes used in a variety of industries, often resulting in defects that compromise their integrity. This economically and industrially significant problem calls for both preventive and curative technical solutions to guarantee the reliability of these structures. With this in mind, our study focuses on the influence of composite and metallic patch repairs on the limit loads of pipes, particularly elbows, the critical component of piping systems. To this end, we used the nonlinear extended finite element method (X-FEM) to study elbows, a priori corroded on the internal surface of the extrados section, then repaired with composite and metallic patches. In addition, the effect of the geometry of composite materials and metal patches was examined, in particular the effect of their thickness and material on the increase in limit loads of repaired structures. The results obtained provide information on the effectiveness and optimization of patch repair of corroded elbows, with the aim of increasing their service life.