Status of the Development of the Slow Crack Growth Test. Topical Report, August 1985-June 1986

摘要

In spite of the excellent performance record of polyethylene (PE) gas distribution systems, a small number of leaks occur in distribution systems each year because of slow growth of cracks through pipe walls. The Slow Crack Growth Test is being developed as a key element in a methodology for the assessment of the performance of polyethylene (PE) gas distribution systems to resist slow crack growth. The report describes the interim results obtained from a critical evaluation of the applicability of the SCG test as an element in PE gas pipe system performance methodology. Results of extensive experiments and analysis are reported. The results show that, with further development, the SCG test should be very useful in performance assessment.