ABSTRACT

In this study, a combined approach of experimental-numerical modelling has been proposed to overcome the buried pipelines physical modelling dimensional limitation, subjected to reverse faulting. Initially, two reverse faulting centrifuge tests including fixed end pipelines have been conducted and the results have been employed for the calibration of a developed numerical model. Then, the calibrated numerical model has been extended longitudinally and the results have been employed to develop a novel “spring-like” end connection (SLEC) system. The developed end connection system was supposed to represent the behaviour of the omitted fault-affected length of pipeline in centrifuge tests. Moreover, a verifying centrifuge test has been conducted, employing the newly developed end connection system. For all the physical tests, the model results have also been presented.