Finite element analysis of rockfall impact on pipelines with different erosion resistant coatings

In this paper, the finite element analysis method is used to extensively study the response of rockfall impact on pipelines with different erosion resistant coating. Based on the numerical results, the safety of the pipeline is comprehensively evaluated. Firstly, through the establishment of detailed pipeline and rockfall models, the impact of different rockfall materials and speeds on the pipeline is simulated. The results of the finite element analysis indicate that rockfall impact can cause significant stress concentration and deformation in the pipelines and damage to the coating. With the increment of impact speed, the damage to the pipeline also increases significantly, and different rockfall materials exhibit varying damage conditions, and it is found that fibreglass reinforced epoxy is better than the polyethylene coating. By comparing the analysis results under different conditions, the safety threshold of the pipeline under various rockfall impact scenarios is obtained. This provides an important theoretical basis and reference for the protection design and safety maintenance of the pipeline. The research in this paper not only aids in deepening the understanding of the mechanism of rockfall impact on pipelines but also serves as a valuable reference for improving the safety and reliability of pipeline engineering.