Numerical Investigation of the Thermal Response and Mechanical Behavior of Water Distribution Pipelines Subjected to Extreme Cold Waves

Water distribution pipelines are crucial infrastructures responsible for delivering safe and reliable drinking water to communities. However, their vulnerability to extreme climate events poses significant challenges to safety and structural integrity. Recent observations have revealed a surge in pipe failures during periods of cold waves, emphasizing the need to understand and mitigate these risks. While extensive 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 a cold wave. In response, this study develops a 3D finite-element model to investigate the thermal responses and mechanical behavior of buried water distribution pipelines subjected to cold-wave conditions. Key parameters, such as the temperature difference between the interior and exterior of the pipe, the rate of reduction in soil temperature, the pipe wall thickness, and internal water pressure, are examined to understand their effects on pipeline stress, strain, and displacement. Results indicate that as the pipe temperature decreases, the pipe contracts, particularly affecting the springline. As time progresses and the pipe temperature decreases further, the pipeline stress changes from tension to compression. According to the parametric study results, a temperature difference of approximately 18°C leads to an axial strain and Mises stress increase of about 85% and 6.5%, respectively. Conversely, an increased rate of reduction in pipe temperature has a minimal effect on pipeline stress but highly impacts pipeline displacements. Increasing the pipe wall thickness from 9 mm to 21 mm effectively reduces pipeline stress by a significant 102.8%, while axial strain decreases by about 17.4%. Additionally, increase in internal water pressure results in elevated pipeline stress but reduced displacement. These findings highlight the importance of considering thermal-mechanical interactions in water distribution pipelines during cold waves to prevent potential failures and ensure operational integrity.