Modelling of the limit state of thin-walled pipes with multiple axial coplanar defects

Abstract This paper points out that the existing codes for multiple defects schematization are oriented towards analyzing brittle strength of cracked bodies, whereas the calculation of the limit load ( P LL ) is in most common use. A general analytical procedure is proposed to determine P LL for pipes with two equal defects (a crack or a concentrator). The analysis of the results obtained has shown that the accepted code of schematization of defects is non-conservative and can result in essential errors.