Rockfall impact on underground pipeline

[zaqqaz]

Hi,

I am designing a buried pipeline in an area with rockfall hazard. How this type of hazard affects the embedment depth and type of fill material? Do I need to consider this type of loading in the design? Is there any specification for protecting the pipeline?

Regards

 

[GabionGuy]

zaqqaz,

I would look at the depth of impact of the design boulder and make sure that you have sufficient cover over your services to protect the structure.

 

[zaqqaz]

Thanks GabionGuy,

Now the question is that how should I define the design bolder, the falling height and the impact depth? Is it appropriate to use conventional elastic solutions to estimate the additional stresses due to impact?

Thanks

 

[GabionGuy]

I can only speak from my experience, but when we get into a rockfall impact situation, the Client will tell us what the design boulder and conditions will be.

The Client has usually undertaken to study, model and analyse the site and determine what the worst case conditions are. With the size and velocity of the boulder, the depth of impact can be determined.

I should caution you that this the case for vertical barriers. I have not worked with a situation similar to your description, but I would try to approach it in a similar manner.