Definition(s)
Gross Structural Discontinuity
Structural or material discontinuity which affects the stress or strain distribution across the entire wall thickness over a region of significant area. EXAMPLE End-to-pipe junction, connector-to-pipe junction, the junction of two pipes of different diameters, thickness or material, or a stiffener-to-pipe junction.
Source: API RP 17G, Recommended Practice for Completion/Workover Risers, Second Edition, July 2006 (Reaffirmed April 2011). Global Standards