Comparative study of analytical and numerical evaluation of the dynamic response of buried pipelines to road-cut excavation blasting

ABSTRACT

This study develops a mathematical model of buried pipelines subjected to surface blast loading based on the theory of beam on elastic foundation. The Fourier transform, a mathematical formula that converts the time domain of the problem to the frequency domain, was used in order to solve a fourth-order non-homogeneous partial differential equation. Transforming the solution back to the time domain, the blast-induced Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) of the pipeline can be calculated. In addition to the mathematical model, a three-dimensional finite element model has been established, thereby drawing a comparison between analytical and numerical results. It can be concluded that the analytically calculated PPV values are found to be higher than the corresponding numerical values. Lastly, the safe distance from the pipeline to blast source and the maximum allowable ANFO explosive weight for two types of rock have been presented in the form of graphs by imposing a limit of 50 mm/s for PPV. This comparative study has investigated the effect of road-cut excavation blasting on pipelines buried under only two types of rock mass. However, it can be used for different types of rock and explosives, mainly thanks to the comprehensiveness of the analytical solution.