Modelling and parametric study of a gasketed bell and spigot joint in a buried high density polyethylene pipeline

Abstract

The performance of joints in gravity flow pipelines has recently been investigated since these elements influence the longevity of the pipeline system. A variety of pipe materials and joint configurations are available for gravity applications; for lined corrugated High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipelines, gasketed bell and spigot joints are the commonest configuration employed in North America. The purpose of the present research study is to develop a numerical model of this joint configuration that helps improve the understanding of its behavior by capturing the kinematics of the system while buried and subjected to surface load. The model provided estimates of springline rotation within 9% of the observed angle, and vertical displacement at the joint in the crown region within 8% of the experimental data from a previous research study. Other objectives include a parametric study to assess the influence of various factors that control joint performance such as surface load position and configuration, soil properties around the pipe, and the presence of pavement. The results from the parametric study indicated that the size difference of the loading pads employed in North America had little influence on the response of the jointed pipeline. It also confirmed that the single wheel pair configuration produces some of the largest demands across the joint compared to single and tandem axle configurations. The results demonstrated the significant influence that the soil and pavement have on the kinematics demands that develop across the joint due to surface loads.