Approximating Material Loss Behind Inaccessible Structures

Abstract eng:
This paper introduces a non-destructive decision support tool based on Relative Material Loss (RML) for approximating material loss on each side of structural steel surfaces exposed to dissimilar environmental conditions. Relative loss (RL) equations are developed across various steel plate boundaries separating dissimilar homogeneous environments. Actual ultrasonic test measurements taken from recent inspection reports are incorporated along with environmental and operational parameters to construct a simulation model. For the first time, a Monte Carlo application of RML is presented. The model is tested on a 65-year old marine structure (a dry dock caisson gate) where the interest is in determining the degree of material wastage behind inaccessible shell plating due to concrete fill placed at the keel level at the time of construction. The study identifies an area of possible concern where further monitoring and investigation may be warranted. Lastly, a brief description is presented on how RML may be useful for structural health monitoring of grout integrity on offshore wind turbine monopile-transition structural connections.

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