Simplified Numerical Method to Evaluate the Mechanical Strength of Cast Iron Water Pipes

The problem of aging water pipes, resulting in leaks and breaks, affects municipalities worldwide. Mechanical failures of small-diameter pipes occur generally by circumferential cracking due to longitudinal bending. Most of the existing pipes are made of gray cast iron which exhibits different behavior in tension and compression. Hence, classic beam theory cannot be employed to determine pipe strength. A numerical strength evaluation method, as presented herein, is able to predict the strength of cast iron water pipes subjected to longitudinal bending. The method is affordable and simple to employ, and can be used effortlessly by water utility engineers.