RUPTURE OF PRESSURIZED TUBES BY MULTIPLE CRACKING AND FRAGMENTATION

The likelihood of stable propagation of an axial crack away from a rupture site in a pressurised tube is a problem of concern in a number of areas, including the gas and nuclear industries. A model of crack propagation is developed which provides the crack velocity and deformation geometry and predicts a minimum driving pressure. Emphasis is placed upon the stability of propagation against small perturbations. The model also offers a criterion for the appearance of multiple cracks and subsequent fragmentation of the tube wall due to excessive bending strains. Calculations of interest in gas pipeline rupture and fast reactor fuel pin failure are presented.