Finite Element Method Simulations to Study Factors Affecting Buried Pipeline Subjected to Debris Flow

As the debris flow caused by sustained rainfall would cause destructive damage to buried pipeline, the safety of buried pipeline under impact of debris flow draws increasing attention. This paper focuses on the mechanical and deformed behavior of buried pipeline subjected to the debris flow. The effects of relevant parameters are investigated, including the velocity and impact angle of debris flow, massive stone, diameter to thickness ratio of pipeline (D/T), and parameters of corrosion pit (i.e., the depth, length, and width of corrosion pit). A finite model of soil and buried pipeline under the impact of debris flow is established. Multiple regression analysis is implemented to evaluate these influence parameters. The results show that: (1) the velocity and the impact angle of debris flow have a great influence on the pipeline; (2) the massive stone in the debris flow has little effect on the buried pipeline; (3) the internal pressure of the pipeline has an inhibitory effect on the deformation of the pipeline, which can enhance the ultimate bearing velocity of pipeline; (4) D/T determines the ultimate bearing velocity of pipeline. Moreover, the effects of the parameters of corrosion pit on the maximum von Mises stress are analyzed by multiple regression and ranked as follows: corrosion depth (A) > corrosion length (L) > corrosion width (B). The result may provide effective guidance for the prevention of pipeline against debris flow in mountain area.