A unified model and simulation method for elastoplastic stress-erosion interaction

Considering the significant stress-accelerated erosion and possible occurrence of plastic flow in erosion scars of engineering structures, such as high-pressure pipes conveying crude oil or natural gas, this study proposes a unified model and simulation method for elastoplastic stress-erosion (EPSE) interaction. First, an EPSE model was proposed based on the elastic stress-accelerated erosion model proposed by the authors. Then, the corresponding numerical simulation framework for EPSE was developed, and the model predictions were qualitatively compared with available test data. After validating the model, the effects of different factors on EPSE, including the elastoplastic stress level, strain-hardening behavior, ultimate strain, flow velocity, and incident angle, were thoroughly studied. Finally, the presence of erosion scars and key factors governing the EPSE were discussed.