Numerical models for stress analysis of non-uniform corroded tubular members under compression

In re-assessing the Jacket-type fixed steel structures, the current standards often allow the simplicity of corrosion sections using local buckling or equivalent section approach to applying empirical formulae of frame stress and resistance analyses. However, those approaches can lead to significant errors for non-uniform corroded frames in a specific area, including force distribution, stress, and allowable strength of the tubular section, compared to the actual cases. This paper investigates a suitable approach to determine the actual stress on non-uniform corroded tubular frames under compression through the non-linear ABAQUS model by considering the effect of large deformation on the frame axis and the frame section. There are 3 scenarios of interest. In the 1st and 2nd scenarios with simple corrosion cases, the stress ratios using the numerical model and theoretical formulae correspond to the calculation of allowable strength reduction ratios in standards. However, scenario 3, which describes non-uniform corroded sections based on survey data, provides considerable differences in results. Therefore, it proves the reliable and effective results when using this method to analyze the resistance of the actual corroded section in the Jacket platforms.