Experimental Investigation of the Pipe Force Mechanism and TSR Strengthening Effects for Buried Pipe Systems in Slopes

It is crucial to ensure the safety and stability of pipelines buried in slopes during installation and operation. In this paper, the interaction between a pipe and soil was investigated via laboratory model tests. The effects of the slope angle and pipe position on the slope horizontal deformation and pipe mechanical properties were investigated. Furthermore, the restraint effect of tire strip reinforcement (TSR) on slope deformation and its impact on pipe stress and strain were analyzed. The results revealed that the potential sliding surface is located at the middle section of the slope. The pipe location has a significant effect on the horizontal surface deformation of the slope, whereas the slope angle has a small effect on the stress and strain of the pipe. In addition, the use of the TSR not only reduces the horizontal surface deformation of the slope but also partially alleviates the vertical stress on the crown of the pipe. As the pipe moves away from the loading plate, the circumferential stress distribution changes from a symmetric state to an asymmetric state, with the most critical location moving from the spring line to the top. The test results provide reliable experimental data to support the design of pipes buried within a slope.