A spacial cracked pipe element for leak before break application

In order to apply the leak before break concept on pipes, characterization of the stability of circumferential cracks, in case of accidental loadings, has to be done. The questions are the following: can the crack growth be initiated, and if yes how large is the growth. The loading can be static or dynamic, and plastification of the material must be taken into account. A simple finite element model has been developed and will be an industrial tool in leak before break applications