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Designs for buried pipeline can reduce seismic hazards

Journal Article · · Oil Gas J.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6466974
 [1];  [2]
  1. Southern Pacific Pipe Lines Inc., Los Angeles, CA (US)
  2. D. Russell Associates, Inc., Point Richmond, CA (US)

Here are some practical methods for designing flexibility into pipelines to cope with seismic hazards. Seismic hazards which are most likely to affect pipelines are ground failures and vibratory ground motion. Marine pipelines may be subjected to the wave action of tsunamis and seiches, especially in coastal areas and offshore platforms. Pipelines usually cross a variety of soil conditions, some of which could pose a danger when subjected to seismic movement. The most common ground-failure hazards associated with seismic events, including faults, liquefaction, densification, and landslides will be discussed in this article. Current design practices to limit seismic damage including locating the pipeline away from active faults, steep hillsides, and soft soils, increasing the flexibility of the system by use of more ductile materials and providing ''failsafe'' systems at sites where damage may be anticipated.

OSTI ID:
6466974
Journal Information:
Oil Gas J.; (United States), Journal Name: Oil Gas J.; (United States) Vol. 86:42; ISSN OIGJA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English