Split-containers for centrifuge modeling of permanent ground deformation effects on buried pipeline systems

Permanent ground deformation (PGD) is a severe hazard for continuous buried lifelines. Current analysis and design procedures are mostly based upon Finite Element (FE) modeling. Relatively few full-scale case histories are available to calibrate the FE procedures. On the other hand, full-scale experimental simulation of seismic faulting behavior is costly and the facilities are complicated. In this paper two advanced split-containers, which are designed and calibrated for centrifuge investigations of the response of continuous buried pipe to ground faulting deformation in the horizontal and vertical directions, are presented. The equipment, calibration results and the first centrifuge model test results are presented. Both split-containers contain the model pipeline and surrounding soil. The first split container is designed such that the container can be offset both horizontally and vertically in flight, and the second container is designed such that two out of the three sections of the container can be offset horizontally in flight. Motions of the movable portions of both containers are precisely controlled using a servo-valve and feedback control system. Both split-containers are capable of applying static and dynamic deformations.