Earthquake Resistant Push-On Pipe Joint Fitting Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard pipe joints are not designed to accommodate expansion, contraction, and deflection, which can lead to pipeline damage or destruction during seismic events, disrupting water services.
Innovation Solution
A push-on type pipe joint fitting with a spigot end and bell end design that includes annular snap rings and gaskets, allowing for expansion, contraction, and deflection while maintaining a seal, thereby resisting seismic effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard pipe joints are used, then the joint structure is simple and easy to install, but the pipeline cannot accommodate expansion, contraction, and deflection during seismic events, leading to damage or destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The bell end of the pipe fitting is designed with a cylindrical shape that allows dynamic movement and deformation during seismic events. The bell end can expand, contract, and deflect to accommodate pipe movement while maintaining the seal, transforming the static joint into a dynamic system that adapts to seismic forces.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible membrane or thin film is incorporated within the bell end to provide sealing while allowing deformation. This flexible element can stretch and compress to accommodate expansion and contraction movements, maintaining the seal between pipes during seismic events without requiring complex mechanical components.
2Reliability
If standard pipe joints are used, then the installation process is straightforward, but the joints cannot resist axial separation forces during earthquakes, disrupting water services
Solution Approach 1:
The bell end is designed with a cylindrical (curved) geometry rather than a straight cylindrical shape. This curvature provides structural strength to resist axial separation forces while allowing the necessary movement. The curved shape distributes stresses more effectively during seismic events, enhancing reliability without adding complex mechanical elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid pipe joints are used, then the connection is strong and stable, but the pipeline cannot withstand the movement and deformation caused by seismic events
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible membrane is positioned within the bell end to maintain sealing capability while accommodating movement. This flexible element allows the joint to withstand seismic movement and deformation without compromising the seal or requiring additional reinforcement structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint design allows changes in geometric parameters during seismic events. The bell end can change its shape and dimensions through expansion, contraction, and deflection, enabling the pipeline to adapt to seismic forces while maintaining connection integrity and water service continuity.
Data Source
AI summary
Pipe joints and more particularly cylindrical push-on type pipe joint fittings with earthquake resistant functions.