Probabilistic model for pressure vessel reliability incorporating fracture mechanics and nondestructive examination

A probabilistic model has been developed for predicting the reliability of structures based on fracture mechanics and the results of nondestructive examination (NDE). The distinctive feature of this model is the way in which inspection results and the probability of detection (POD) curve are used to calculate a probability density function (PDF) for the number of flaws and the distribution of those flaws among the various size ranges. In combination with a probabilistic fracture mechanics model, this density function is used to estimate the probability of failure (POF) of a structure in which flaws have been detected by NDE. The model is useful for parametric studies of inspection techniques and material characteristics.