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Research Project Title: Modelling the stress response of cast iron pipes during hydraulic transients

In the UK, leakage accounts for the majority of network water loss. One source of leakage is via pipe wall cracks which may go undetected for long or indefinite periods, resulting in a large cumulative water loss. Fatigue, which arises when pipes are subjected to repeatedly varying stress states, could be a source of such cracks. Pressure transients are increasingly of concern to water companies as a dynamic load within pipes; the validity of a fatigue analysis will therefore require a suitable conversion of this load into a stress response on the pipe. Using physical and numerical experiments, this project will develop new stress models to capture the response of pipes during transients. By better understanding the stress response of cast iron pipes under transient loading, we will have improved stress inputs to fatigue models. Enhancing confidence in service life estimations of ageing assets will aid in identifying pipes susceptible to leaks whilst reducing premature asset replacement, resulting in more efficient and proactive asset management.