Derivation and Validation of a Leakage Model for Longitudinal Slits in Polyethylene Pipes

摘要

We do not understand the complex behaviour of leaks in thick wall plastic pipes, yet\udthe ability to model this is essential to assess and mitigate real losses from drinking water\uddistribution systems. A methodology was followed whereby numerical and physical experi\udmental data were used to develop a generalised model quantifying both the structural and\udleak dynamics of longitudinal slits in thick-walled viscoelastic pipes. The dimensionally homogeneous time and pressure dependent leakage model was validated using experimental\uddata, independent from the physical observations utilised for the viscoelastic calibration.\udThis was shown to be an effective tool to predict the distinct short and long term responses.\udSuch accurate models, describing the characteristic response of complex leaks, are crucial in\udimproving the understanding of leakage behaviour and management.