Optimization of process parameters for rehabilitation of pipes through adhesive bonding: experimental study

摘要

In many industries maintenance and repairing of pipes are crucial elements to engineers. The processes may consume a lot of money and time. Conventional methods like welding, riveting etc. may damage the base material or some times the pipe may carry inflammable fluids which can not be possible to repair by conventional methods. In such a case, adhesive bond may provide an alternative solution to the pipe repair or strengthening applications. The present work focuses on the optimization of process parameters which enhances the adhesive bond capacity (Tensile shear load) between carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite patch and SS (SS 304) plates. Epoxy resin and adhesive combination, pre cure temperature and surface preparation was considered as parameters. The surface roughness of pre-bond surfaces was measured using a 3D-microscope. The quality of the adhesive bond was evaluated using non-destructive testing (Digital Radiography) before performing tensile test. The failed surface morphology was studied using FE-SEM images. The optimal parameters were derived form the tensile test data of the adhesive joint. The bond capacity for lateral loadings was also studied using a three point bending test at the derived conditions. These parameters were also applied to rehabilitate the damaged pipe and its ability was evaluated through hydrostatic pressure test. From the results, it was observed that these parameters hold good for pipe rehabilitation also.