Response of Gasketed Bell and Spigot Joint in Small-Diameter HDPE Pipes Subjected to Expected Field Demands

Abstract

Gasketed bell and spigot joints in flexible pipelines are expected to be subjected to shear force, diameter change (or ovalization), and rotation under field conditions. Nonetheless, only some of these demands and their combinations are examined by current quality control tests employed in North America. This study was undertaken to examine the response of gasketed bell and spigot joints in 300-mm high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipelines when subjected to combinations of expected field demands under internal or external pressure, employing a recently developed test apparatus and pressure system. It was observed that expected field magnitudes of shear forces and diameter change applied across the joint influenced its ability to remain leak tight. Medium-term tests were also examined to assess the influence of the time-dependent response exhibited by the HDPE and rubber. It was observed that joint leakage resistance was influenced; this was attributed to the rearrangement of the joint components during the test period.