The analysis of design and operational load of the linear part of main oil and oil product pipelines

The article considers the existing approach to determining the bearing capacity of the pipeline with using the design (rated) load safety factor. There were analysed the following factors affecting the actual inner pressure load of the pipeline: transient processes, change of rheological properties of the transported product. error in calculation and pressure measurement. These factors are considered by the load safety factor in the pipeline design. but they may be subject to changing during operation (the statistical data for the values of operational (rated) overpressure are given). Presently. with modern achievements in the automation field, development of control and overpressure protection systems for pipelines, calculation software, the mentioned factors may be determined more reliably than 30-50 years ago allowing to eliminate or considerably mitigate the rate of uncertainty in the design. The results of calculations proving the expediency of consideration of actual load along with the design load safety factors are given for the following cases: when determining the allowable operating pressures, in strength and life prediction calculations for pipelines with deficiencies. Determining the pipeline bearing capacity considering the maximum pressure levels or design (operating) load safety factor was suggested.