Numerical investigation of the thermal response and Mechanical Behavior of Water Distribution Pipelines subjected to extreme Cold Wave

Abstract

Water distribution pipelines play a critical role in delivering safe drinking water to communities, yet their susceptibility to extreme climate events presents significant safety and structural challenges. Recent observations have noted an increase in pipe failures during cold waves, underscoring the need to address these risks. While much research has focused on statistical analysis of pipe failures due to low temperatures, limited attention has been given to the mechanical behavior of pipelines under thermal-induced stress during cold waves. This study addresses this gap by developing a 3D finite element model to investigate the thermal responses and mechanical behavior of buried water distribution pipelines under cold wave conditions. Key parameters including temperature differences, soil temperature reduction rates, pipe wall thickness, and internal water pressure are examined to understand their effects on pipeline stress, strain, and displacement. Results show that as pipe temperature decreases, the pipe contracts, particularly impacting the springline. Over time, pipeline stress transitions from tension to compression. A temperature difference of approximately 18℃ leads to an 85% increase in axial strain and a 6.5% increase in Mises stress. Increasing the rate of temperature reduction minimally affects pipeline stress but significantly impacts displacements. Moreover, increasing pipe wall thickness effectively reduces pipeline stress by 102.8% and axial strain by 17.4%. Higher internal water pressure results in elevated pipeline stress but reduced displacement. These findings underscore the importance of considering thermal-mechanical interactions during cold waves to prevent failures and ensure operational integrity in water distribution pipelines.