Pipeline Curvature by Polynomial Approximation

by G. G. Simmons, Alyeska Pipeline Service Co, Anchorage, AK, USA,
J. V. Alto, Alyeska Pipeline Service Co, Anchorage, AK, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Pipeline Infrastructure

Abstract:

Since start-up of the trans-Alaska pipeline in June of 1977, a variety of techniques have been investigated to monitor pipe settlement and evaluate associated pipe integrity. During the design of the pipeline, full-scale tests were conducted using simulated field loadings to correlate the onset of pipe buckling with pipe curvatures. In 1982 a computer program using a polynomial approximation technique was developed to calculate pipe curvatures from discrete known pipeline elevations. Criteria for, and development of, the numerical model is discussed along with a description of how the curvature approximation technique has been used to estimate the integrity of pipe sections with respect to buckling. Actual field data are included which demonstrate the use and effectiveness of the technique.

Subject Headings: Pipes | Curvature | Polynomials | Pipelines | Pipeline management | Numerical models | Buckling

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