API RP 1176

Description

This recommended practice (RP) is applicable to any pipeline system used to transport hazardous liquid or natural gas, including those defined in U.S. Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 195 and 192. This RP is specifically designed to provide the operator with a description of industry-proven practices in the integrity management of cracks and threats that give rise to cracking mechanisms. The guidance is largely targeted to the line pipe along the right-of-way (ROW), but some of the processes and approaches can be applied to pipeline facilities, including pipeline stations, terminals, and delivery facilities associated with pipeline systems. Defects associated with lap-welded (LW) pipe and selective seam weld corrosion (SSWC) are not covered within this RP. This RP presents the pipeline industry’s understanding of pipeline cracking. Mechanisms that cause cracking are discussed, methods to estimate the failure pressure of cracks are reviewed, and methods to estimate crack