The structural integrity of high-strength welded pipeline steels: a review

Purpose The key purpose of conducting this review is to identify the issues that affect the structural integrity of pipeline structures. Heat affected zone (HAZ) has been identified as the weak zone in pipeline welds which is prone to have immature failures Design/methodology/approach In the present work, literature review is conducted on key issues related to the structural integrity of pipeline steel welds. Mechanical and microstructural transformations that take place during welding have been systematically reviewed in the present review paper. Findings Key findings of the present review underline the role of brittle microstructure phases, and hard secondary particles present in the matrix are responsible for intergranular and intragranular cracks. Research limitations/implications The research limitations of the present review are new material characterization techniques that are not available in developing countries. Practical implications The practical limitations are new test methodologies and associated cost. Social implications The fracture of pipelines significantly affects the surrounding ecology. The continuous spillage of oil pollutes the land and water of the surroundings. Originality/value The present review contains recent and past studies conducted on welded pipeline steel structures. The systematic analysis of studies conducted so far highlights various bottlenecks of the welding methods.