Parametric Study of Influence of Profile Geometry on Structural Performance of Buried Profile-Wall Pipe

Abstract

A study at Utah State University examined the performance of buried high-density polyethylene profile-wall pipe to provide guidance for its proper design. One aspect of this effort was a parametric study of various pipe profiles through use of linear, three-dimensional finite element models. An experimental portion of this project showed that pipes that performed well in buried tests also performed well in parallel-plate tests. This paper summarizes the results of a parametric study of profile-wall pipes in parallel-plate tests. Among the several profile features examined were pipe profile height, profile curvature, wall angle, rib width, and wall thicknesses. In the completed parametric studies, a single dimension was varied while most of the remaining parameters were maintained at constant values. To simplify the analysis, this effort was limited to linear finite element models: the displacements are assumed to be small and the material linear elastic. The small displacement assumption was accurate for the estimation of stiffness at 5% deflection but may not represent buckling correctly. Linear static and linear buckling analysis results are presented. One of the most significant conclusions from this study was that the arch curvature or profile shape had a significant effect on the stability of profile-wall pipe. Plots showing the influence of parameters such as profile height, shape, and thickness on pipe stiffness and buckling are presented.