Analysis and Design of Buried Steel Water Pipelines in Seismic Areas¹

Abstract

This paper offers an overview of available methodologies and provisions for the structural analysis and mechanical design of buried welded steel water pipelines subjected to earthquake action. Both transient (wave-shaking) and permanent ground actions (from tectonic faults, soil subsidence, landslides, and liquefaction-induced lateral spreading) are considered. In the first part of the paper, following a brief presentation of seismic hazards, modeling of the interacting pipeline–soil system is discussed in terms of either simple analytical models or more rigorous finite elements, pinpointing their main features. The second part of the paper outlines pipeline resistance, with emphasis on the corresponding limit states. Possible mitigation measures for reducing seismic effects are presented, and the possibility of employing gasketed joints in seismic areas is discussed. Finally, the discussed analysis methodologies and design provisions are applied in a design example of a buried steel water pipeline located in an area with severe seismic action.