Numerical Analysis of Cold Bending of Pipelines

Abstract Cold bends are used to accommodate directional changes in the pipe horizontal alignment or vertical profile. Industry standards and current engineering practice provide guidance on the fabrication of cold bends. There is no explicit constraint on the location of the longitudinal seam weld, in relation to the neutral axis of the bending plane, provided the pipe is greater than 305 mm in diameter with a D/t ratio less than 70. Improved understanding on the influence of the seam weld and bend angle on the pipe mechanical deformation, stress and strain response is needed. The outcomes from this study can be used to inform the critical parameters influencing the cold bending of longitudinal seam welded pipe.