Investigation of the Impact of Residual Hoop Stresses on the Lifespan of Polyethylene Pipes

Document Type : compile

Authors

1 Kerman Province Water & Wastewater Co.

2 Kerman Province Water & Wastewater Co.

3 Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman

10.22063/basparesh.2025.35599.1721

Abstract

The use of polyethylene pipes is increasingly favored due to their numerous advantages, including light weight, flexibility, high resistance to corrosion, and low production and maintenance costs. These pipes are manufactured in various types and through different methods for applications such as potable water distribution, agricultural irrigation, and industrial fluid transport. The superior properties of polyethylene pipes have played an important role in the rapid growth of their production and widespread use in various industries. However, during the production process, several factors can induce residual stresses in the pipe structure. These residual stresses, along with the stresses generated by internal pressure, create effective final stresses that affect pipe wear and, consequently, its lifespan. This study investigates the impact of residual stresses on the effective lifespan of polyethylene pipes. Initially, various types of residual stresses that may be generated during the production process are introduced, and then beneficial and detrimental residual stresses are identified and compared. Finally, the effect of these stresses on the lifespan of the pipes is assessed. The findings of this study show that low production quality and the presence of residual stress of approximately 1.1 MPa can significantly reduce pipe lifespan. Conversely, a proper design of manufacturing process that creates suitable compressive residual stresses can extend the lifespan of the pipe by up to 2.5 times.

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References

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