Seismic Analysis of Firefighting Pipe Networks

Abstract

The stability of firefighting pipes is crucial in the event of an earthquake. In Korea, specification-based designs are used in accordance with NFSC. However, engineering performance-based designs are used for buildings that have special requirements. For firefighting pipes, tree type pipe networks are usually utilized in buildings; however, they are characterized by several limitations. Hence, grid type and loop type networks are being utilized lately. Earthquake-resistant designs for firefighting pipes in Korea utilize NFPA 13 as the cookbook. Nevertheless, an engineering analysis is required to verify its reliability. The NFPA 13 standard used in Korea is a design method for engineers who lack earthquake engineering analysis knowledge of pipes and adapt ASCE and ASME guidelines. Earthquake resistant designs in Korea review braces only. Hence, various analyses under load conditions, such as the internal pressure of a pipe, force exerted by a continuous load, and an earthquake, are required to ensure reliability. An engineering earthquake-resistance analysis showed that tree type pipe networks are less stable than grid and loop type pipe networks. A comparison of earthquake-resistance analysis based on stress and strain revealed that strain analysis exhibited a conservative result value in the range of over-stress. Therefore, for the earthquake-resistance analysis of pipes, it is rational that engineers perform analysis to achieve the required standards through engineering analysis rather than uniform calculations, which should also be analyzed considering various analysis conditions.