Design, Finite Element Analysis, and Experimental Investigation of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) Composite for Oil and Gas Applications

Abstract

The pipelines used for transporting oil and gas need to have sufficient strength, durability, and resistance to any form of corrosion. The usual metallic pipes are prone to corrosion and weigh quite a lot. In this research, the use of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite Pipe has been studied using computer aided design and finite element analysis among others. A BFRP pipe with 200 mm length, 50 mm inner diameter, and 10 mm wall thickness was modeled using orthotropic material property assumptions and studied under an internal pressure of 55 MPa. The maximum equivalent stress predicted through FEA was 210 MPa and the maximum displacement was 0.45 mm. The hardness obtained from the experimental test was 84.2 HRB, axial compressive strength was 178 MPa, and lateral performance stability was noted up to 12 kN. There was an approximate difference of 3.8% between the experimental and simulation axial compressive strengths of 185 MPa. The results indicate that there is potential for BFRP material to be used as a light and corrosion-resistant material for pipeline structures.