Centrifuge tests of large-diameter steel pipes crossing strike–slip faults

Abstract

Fault rupture is one of the main hazards for buried continuous pipes, and it has frequently been investigated experimentally in recent decades. In this study, to explore and model the failure mechanisms of continuous steel pipes crossing faults, a series of centrifuge tests of large-diameter steel pipes (D = 1.616 m) crossing strike–slip faults was conducted. Pipe strains are measured using 30 strain gauges, and pipe cross-section deformation is determined using a micro industrial endoscope for the first time; thus, cross-sectional ovalization is accurately derived. Subsequently, factors influencing the responses of steel pipe crossing faults, such as the burial depth, pipe-fault crossing angle, and pipe diameter, are investigated. The centrifuge test results show that the pipe responses, including the pipe strain and deformation, are significantly affected by these factors. Finally, three limit states are considered and compared: 3 % tensile strain, 15 % cross-sectional ovalization, and local buckling limit, and pipe failure behaviors are examined for these cases. The results shown that these tests can serve as benchmarks for theoretical and numerical models.