Experimental Study of Weepage in Multi-layer Glass Reinforced Piping

  • Hussain Al Sinan

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

Glass Reinforced Polymer pipes, commonly used in water transport applications, are prone to long term weepage. Weepage is defined as the transfer of fluid through the pipe and is considered a functional failure. An experimental investigation of weepage in multi-layered GRP pipes was carried out in two parts aiming to understand the phenomenon to help enhance the weepage resistance of manufactured pipes. First, liner surface profilometry investigation was carried out to identify microscopic features that might serve in initiating weepage. Second, MRI and x-ray tomography and SEM imaging of pipe samples aged with water and dye penetrant was carried out to capture weepage development through the pipe thickness. Diffusion through liner fiber/resin interface, propagation in the direction of poorly wetted hoop fibers and transverse cracks were found to be the likely causes of accelerating weepage in the samples. Fiber rich zones in the liner were considered weak spots that water can use for fast penetration of the liner. Finally, polyester netting used to hold core layer was found to help in water accumulation and transport through the pipe increasing the chances of failure.
Date of AwardMay 2014
Original languageEnglish (US)
Awarding Institution
  • Physical Sciences and Engineering
SupervisorGilles Lubineau (Supervisor)

Keywords

  • weepage
  • GRP
  • pipe
  • polyester

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