What is a pipeline buckle?
A pipeline buckle is a severe deformation, or partial collapse, of a pipe, caused by lateral instability. This defect occurs when a pipe experiences excessive bending or compression, resulting in abrupt changes in curvature. Since it can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of failure, buckling is considered a critical pipeline defect.1
Why is pipeline buckling a risk for pipeline safety?
Buckles pose a serious threat to pipeline safety because they can cause cracking at the buckle location. Furthermore, abrupt changes in curvature increase stress concentration. Severe buckling can result in a loss of pipeline safety and requires immediate intervention. In most cases, the affected section must be cut out and replaced to ensure the pipeline is safe to operate again.1
How does a pipeline buckle occur?
Pipeline buckling is usually caused by high stress resulting from external forces or environmental conditions. Common causes include:
- Soil movement: Landslides, washouts, frost heaves, or unstable ground
- Natural events: Earthquakes or other seismic activity
- Operational factors: Operating at temperatures beyond design limits
These conditions create transverse or longitudinal loads that exceed the pipe’s capacity, causing it to deform.1
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Source reference
1 The Encyclopedia of Pipeline Defects, ROSEN UK, Edition 3, 2017.