Derivation and validation of a leakage model for longitudinal slits in polyethylene pipes

Although we do not understand the complex behavior of leaks in thick-walled plastic pipes, the ability to model them is essential to the assessment and mitigation of the real losses from drinking water–distribution systems. A methodology was followed whereby numerical and physical experimental data were used to develop a generalized model that quantified both the structural and leak dynamics of longitudinal slits in thick-walled viscoelastic pipes. The dimensionally homogeneous time- and pressure-dependent leakage model was validated using experimental data independent from the physical observations used for the viscoelastic calibration. This was shown to be an effective tool to predict the distinct short- and long-term responses. Such accurate models, which describe the characteristic response of complex leaks, are crucial in improving the understanding of leakage behavior and management.