Nonlinear analysis of large deformation in steel corrugated pipe culverts－Theoretical calculations and numerical simulations of deformation and stresses

Abstract

In practical engineering applications, the prevalence of buried pipelines characterized by substantial filling heights and diameters is steadily increasing. The conventional approach to evaluating the stress in buried pipelines typically relies on elastic behavior assumptions. However, when dealing with significant deformations of pipelines, there tends to be a noticeable disparity between calculated results and actual measurements. The main goal of this research is to examine the mechanical properties of steel corrugated pipe culverts subjected to large deformations. We use the Maston-Spangler model theory to figure out the deformation and bending stress of steel corrugated pipe culverts that are deforming a lot. Following this, we utilize finite element analysis using ANSYS software to perform numerical simulations. The simulation presented in this study involves the modeling of a steel corrugated pipe culvert as an ideal elastic-plastic structure. Incremental external loading is given to the culvert until it achieves its limit condition. This study aims to conduct a thorough analysis on the influence of two key variables, namely filling height and pipe diameter, on steel corrugated pipe culverts. The objective is to establish quantitative expressions and descriptive coefficients that accurately depict the impact of these elements. The determination of deformation and bending stress in a steel corrugated pipe culvert, when subjected to significant deformation, is achieved by utilizing a customized mathematical formula. The aforementioned formula is a useful tool for informing the design of steel corrugated pipe culverts, specifically in terms of their ability to endure substantial filling heights and notable deformations.

Keywords

• Steel corrugated pipe
• Nonlinear
• Large deformation
• Finite element analysis
• Formula
• Comparison