Fault Movement Effects on Buried Oil Pipeline

Abstract

In earthquake zones pipeline crossings of major active faults are often unavoidable, and movements of these faults can have serious consequences for the pipeline. The ability of a large diameter shallow-buried pipeline to withstand these movements is studied parametrically. Principal results of the study are summarized herein. Parameters considered include variations in: (1)Fault crossing angle; (2)unanchored length of pipe; (3)depth of burial; (4)wall thickness; (5)pipe diameter; and (6)pipe strength. A simplified procedure accounting for inelastic strains is developed for conservatively evaluating pipeline behavior during fault movement. Results indicate that under suitable conditions, a large diameter shallow-buried pipe can withstand large fault displacements. The procedure can be used to examine many cases other than those considered.