Estimation of Structural Strains in Underground Lifeline Pipes

摘要

This study draws upon a previously developed risk analysis methodology for underground pipeline systems. In that methodology, a conversion factor 'beta' was used to estimate the structural strain in underground pipelines induced by the propagating seismic wave. The present study derives a practical procedure to estimate the conversion factor that can be used not only for straight and bent pipes, but also for structural details of more complex geometry. This conversion factor can be determined for a number of typical cases to provide the analyst with the numerical insight as to its values consistent with the physical conditions to which the pipeline system is subjected.