Probabilistic analysis of stress intensity factor (SIF) and degree of bending (DoB) in axially loaded tubular K-joints of offshore structures

Abstract The stress intensity factor (SIF) and the degree of bending (DoB) are among the crucial parameters in evaluating the fatigue reliability of offshore tubular joints based on the fracture mechanics (FM) approach. The value of SIF is a function of the crack size, nominal stress, and two modifying coefficients known as the crack shape factor (Yc) and geometric factor (Yg). The value of the DoB is mainly determined by the joint geometry. These three parameters exhibit considerable scatter which calls for greater emphasis in accurate determination of their governing probability distribution...