Dynamic Axial Stiffness of Typical Restrained and Unrestrained Underground Pipe Joints

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents the results of a testing program designed to determine the dynamic axial stiffness of some typical underground pipe joints, both restrained and unrestrained. Pipelines have been shown to be vulnerable to seismic motions and ground movement, causing joint damage and system failure. Many of these failures have occurred at unrestrained bell-and-spigot type pipe joints due to pull-out and intrusion of the spigot end into the bell end. The results of this research program are joint stiffness values and force capacities that can be used in the analysis and evaluation of failure potential of underground piping systems.