The structural performance of polymeric linings for nominally cylindrical gravity pipes

This paper considers both the linear elastic and creep buckling of polymeric pipe linings used for the rehabilitation of gravity pipes, for which external groundwater pressure has been identified as the prime source of loading. Theoretically perfect and imperfect conditions are considered, with the imperfections taken to be in the form of a concentric or eccentric annulus between the rigid host pipe (cylindrical constraint) and polymeric lining. Under these conditions two recently obtained mathematical procedures for the prediction of linearly and non-linearly elastic buckling are compared with the results of complementary laboratory testing. Linear elastic conditions are shown to be well approximated by undertaking short-term (≈30 min) testing under increasing pressure to failure. Controlled imperfections are introduced into the laboratory tests and excellent correlation with the theoretical predictions is obtained. In particular, the dominant geometrical imperfections are shown to be major influences on the obtained buckling pressure. The mathematical models are then adapted to simulate the creep buckling process under long-term constant pressure. The results obtained are again compared with those provided by complementary physical testing, and appropriate conclusions are made.