Title: Finite Element Model Analysis of Pipes Embedded in Controlled Low-Strength Material under Seismic Wave Propagation

Author(s): Prapon Somboonyanon and Ceki Halmen

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 115

Issue: 6

Appears on pages(s): 1729-1736

Keywords: buried pipe; controlled low-strength materials; seismic wave propagation; three-dimensional finite element seismic simulation

DOI: 10.14359/51702383

Date: 11/1/2018

Abstract:
The performance of steel pipelines embedded in various backfill materials under seismic wave propagation was evaluated using a three-dimensional (3-D) finite element (FE) model. Four different soils and three selected controlled low-strength material (CLSM) mixtures were evaluated as backfill materials. Effect of various model parameters on calculated pipe stresses were analyzed. Predicted pipe stresses were compared to pipe stresses calculated using the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) guidelines. ASCE guidelines are developed for pipes embedded in soils and are valid only for specific assumptions. After setting the model parameters to match the predicted stresses by the ASCE guidelines for pipes embedded in soils, the developed FE model was used to evaluate the CLSM mixtures under various pipe end conditions. Results indicate that the use of a CLSM mixture instead of compacted soils as a backfill material can significantly reduce the stresses of embedded pipes under seismic wave propagation.