Three-Dimensional Finite Element Modelling of Corroded Corrugated Metal Pipe Culverts

Abstract

The effects of corrosion on the structural response of round CMP culverts is investigated using three-dimensional (3D) finite element models. The validity of the model was assessed by comparing model output with results from full-scale laboratory tests conducted by Mai et al. (2014a). The 3D FE models were then used to carry out parametric studies for intact and corroded culverts. Input parameters for the study of intact culverts were pipe diameter, height of soil cover, soil stiffness, soil strength, and the strength/stiffness of the soil-CMP interface. Total forces in the pipe were found to be most sensitive to pipe diameter and height of soil cover. Input parameters for the study of corroded culverts included corrosion geometry and remaining plate thickness. The largest effects on factor of safety against yielding and buckling occurred when corrosion covered the location of maximum normal stress located at the haunches.