Semi-empirical equation for determination of stress concentration factors (SCF) in tubular joints of fixed offshore platforms subjected to axial forces

Resumo

Considering the importance of studying fatigue failure in offshore structures, the stress concentration
factor (SCF) is one of the most relevant parameters for its evaluation, obtained through equations that vary
according to the geometry of the tubular joint; the type of joint in question; and the load to which it is subjected.
Even though numerical research on KT-type tubular joints is widely discussed in the literature, this article applies
the symbolic regression method in order to evaluate and discuss existing equations. Through a parametric study in
finite elements, using the ANSYS software, with a variation of KT joints subjected to an axial load, it is possible
to obtain the SCFs, using a specific point for analysis. Thus, through the use of dimensionless geometric
parameters, the parametric equations for the SCFs are obtained, using the symbolic regression method. Based on
these equations, it will be possible to make a comparison with existing equations and verify the possibility of
improving the values of SCFs.