In this paper we review and compile the design equations for buried metallic pipe. The nomenclature is provided at the back of the paper, and is not repeated with each equation.
The methods and criteria presented here are applicable to safety-related, or non-safety-related, buried piping systems designed and qualified to ASME III Class 2 or 3, ASME B31.7 (Ref. 4), or ASME B31.1. As is always the case with safety-related piping systems, the engineer should verify the compatibility of the equations presented here with the licensing basis of the plant.
It is not our intent to introduce new methods or criteria in this paper. Instead, our objective is to compile existing theories, methods and criteria that are dispersed in several standards, publications, and textbooks, so as to provide a structured approach to the design process.
