Research on the remaining life assessment method of corrosive steel pipe structures in substations based on thickness measurement and testing

Strength degradation of steel structures due to corrosion is a significant durability concern globally, particularly in industrial environments where exposure to harsh conditions accelerates material deterioration. This study investigates the impact of long-term atmospheric corrosion on the mechanical properties and load-bearing capacity of circular hollow section (CHS) steel columns. The specimens dismantled from a substation structure exposed to an urban industrial environment for 30 years were subjected to tensile and axial compression experiments to analyze corrosion-induced deterioration. This research explores the correlation between corrosion rate and degradation of mechanical properties, such as yield strength, ultimate strength, and elasticity. A novel Corrosion-Mechanical Interaction Model is proposed to predict the remaining service life of corroded steel structures by integrating the effects of corrosion on these critical properties. Experimental results revealed a significant reduction in yield and ultimate strength due to uniform corrosion, with a direct linear relationship between the bearing capacity degradation and material loss. This study provides a crucial tool for engineers and infrastructure planners in managing the lifecycle of steel structures exposed to harsh environmental conditions.