Finite Element Modelling of Mechano-electrochemical Effect of High Strength Steel Pipeline Corrosion

High-strength low alloy steels are cost-effective steel grades, and they are susceptible to corrosion-induced degradation, posing significant safety and economic concerns. Understanding the interaction of mechano-electrochemical (M-E) in corrosion processes is crucial for ensuring the integrity and longevity of these pipelines. The study presents a finite element (FE) modelling approach to investigate the M-E effect of high-strength steel pipeline corrosion. The results of the FE model were verified using experimental measurements. The modelling results, which include the corrosion current density and corrosion potential, agree well with the experimental measurements for the steel pipe in a near-neutral pH environment. The study reveals that increasing longitudinal tensile strain and corrosion defect depth lead to localized stress enhancements on the pipe wall. While tensile strain induces an overall stress level increase, deeper corrosion defects concentrate stress at the defect centre. The M-E effect of pipe corrosion is elucidated through the integration of mechanical, electrochemical, and electric fields in the model. The research also underscores the importance of understanding these interactions for predicting and mitigating corrosion-induced failures in high-strength steel pipelines. © 2025, Semarak Ilmu Publishing. All rights reserved.