Abstract
Laboratory scale tests have been used to assess whether a loosely fitted PE liner within a rigid host pipe could, at any realistic working pressure, fail by rapid crack propagation (RCP). The standard 'S4' test method for RCP was modified, the usual cage of containment rings being replaced by a rigid, closed sleeve maintaining a predefined radial clearance from the unpressurised pipe. Pipe specimens of 125 mm diameter with wall thicknesses of 11·4 and 7·1 mm, made from a PE80 polyethylene in which RCP is normally possible at 0°C, were tested with three different clearances as well as with the usual S4 cage. For pipe having an unpressurised clearance down to 2% or so of the diameter, the RCP critical pressure was increased by ∼50% for both thicknesses; for smaller clearances, by progressively more. These results reinforce suspicions that pipe installation conditions may affect full scale RCP resistance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
