Forensic geotechnical investigations into varied pipeline failures

Misconstruing that buried pipelines do not lead to catastrophic failures while other constructed structures are deemed susceptible to failure is not uncommon. This paper presents some innovative research methodology underpinned by case studies to endorse that design and construction of buried pipelines need amenable interdisciplinary communications between materials, hydraulic, geotechnical, structural, and construction engineers. An initial outline sets the scene for the gravity of consequences from buried pipeline failures. The paper proceeds to expound related reasons and intelligent infrastructure solutions arising from forensic investigations of such failures. The inevitable influences from material aging and geo-environmental effects on a variety of pipeline projects are then presented. It is more the reason that smart contractors need to vigilantly adhere to contract specifications of a project, appreciating the significance of the variability in the foundation soil, geo-environmental, and construction hazards. Further attempts were made to distinguish between pipeline failures consequential to factors over and above soil–pipeline interaction influenced by soil loads surrounding the pipe. Shortsighted, hasty decisions in construction practice to economize on time and construction costs will lean toward collapse, resulting in unforeseen ancillary costs. The author shares his expert evidence experience and innovative, sustainable research solutions covering different failure scenarios. The paper further presents unorthodox geotechnical and material investigations and smart engineering solutions carried out by his numerous postgraduate researchers and others within a pipeline research group in the UK. The cases cited will hopefully enthuse the quest of interested readers to develop further through the references cited, the need for lateral and logical thinking “outside the box” for forensic geotechnics and pipeline engineering.