Best Probability Distribution for SCFs in FRP-Strengthened T/Y-Shaped Connections under Out-of-Plane Bending Loading

The stress concentration factor (SCF) holds significant importance in fatigue reliability analyses concerning tubular offshore structures. This study utilizes results from finite element (FE) analyses conducted on 96 T/Y-connections reinforced with FRP to develop a probability distribution model for SCFs in FRP-reinforced joints under Out-of-Plane Bending (OPB) loading conditions. Eleven different probability density functions (PDFs) were fitted to histograms depicting the relative frequency of SCF samples. The maximum likelihood method was employed to determine the parameters of each distribution. Assessment of goodness-of-fit through Chi-squared and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests revealed the Gamma distribution as the most suitable probability function for T/Y-joints with FRP under OPB load. In the final phase, a comprehensive PDF was proposed for maximum weld SCFs in T/Y-joints with FRP under OPB loading conditions.

Best Probability Distribution for SCFs in FRP-Strengthened T/Y-Shaped Connections under Out-of-Plane Bending Loading Keywords:

Stress Concentration Factor , Probability Density Function , Out-of-Plane Bending , T/Y-Shaped Connections , FRP Layers