**Safety Escape Passage for Tunnel Construction Using Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Pipeline**
The use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in tunnel construction has proven to be a highly effective solution for emergency escape routes. This material is lightweight, easy to install and dismantle, and offers exceptional toughness and impact resistance. The UHMWPE pipeline is designed with high rigidity, excellent pressure resistance, and is resistant to deformation, making it ideal for repeated use in demanding environments.
The transportation sector has demonstrated the effectiveness of UHMWPE escape pipelines in emergency rescue scenarios during tunnel construction. The ergonomic design of the pipe structure ensures that it meets human body dimensions, allowing safe passage during emergencies.
To verify the reliability of UHMWPE pipes in tunnel construction, four key methods have been applied:
1. **Structural Design of 800mm Diameter Escape Pipe**
Based on Alvin R. Tilly’s research, the minimum diameter for a circular escape route should be at least 585mm to allow full body passage. Considering site conditions, the outer diameter of the UHMWPE pipe was set to 800mm, ensuring both safety and practicality.
2. **Wall Thickness Design of 800mm Escape Pipe**
Through mechanical analysis using Hertz contact theory and energy principles, the relationship between wall thickness, impact force, and deformation was established. With a wall thickness of 30mm, the pipe can withstand significant impact without compromising internal clearance. At a drop height of 7m, the deformation was only 4.8% of the diameter, leaving an internal space of 740mm—sufficient for safe passage.
3. **Connection Design of 800mm Escape Pipe**
The pipe is reinforced at the ends and connected using steel wire ropes, chains, and hooks. The hoop connection system allows for quick assembly and disassembly, making it ideal for dynamic tunnel environments. A climbing rope is also installed every 120° for added safety.
4. **Impact Resistance Verification**
Impact tests were conducted comparing UHMWPE and steel pipes under similar conditions. A 400kg granite block dropped from 10m showed that the UHMWPE pipe absorbed most of the impact energy without rupture, while the steel pipe was flattened. This confirms its superior performance in real-world scenarios.
**Advantages of 800mm UHMWPE Escape Pipe**
- Lightweight (about 1/3 the weight of steel), easy to transport and handle.
- High impact resistance and energy absorption capabilities.
- Excellent pressure resistance and structural rigidity.
- Resistant to wear, aging, and chemical corrosion.
**Application Scenarios**
The 800mm UHMWPE pipe is widely used in highway tunnel projects. It is typically 12 meters long with a 30mm wall thickness and can be connected using hoops or bolts. Short sections (1m, 2m, 3m) are also prepared to accommodate different construction needs. The pipe is laid along the tunnel walls, with connections secured to prevent displacement during collapse.
**Case Study: Dali-Lijiang Expressway**
The Dali-Lijiang Expressway project has adopted this technology as part of its safety measures. Workers now have a reliable escape route in case of tunnel collapse. According to local workers, the 800mm pipe provides a secure path for evacuation, significantly improving safety on the construction site.
In conclusion, the 800mm UHMWPE escape pipeline is a critical innovation in tunnel safety. Its durability, ease of installation, and high performance make it an essential component of modern tunnel construction. We welcome collaboration and support from industry professionals to further enhance safety standards in infrastructure development.
IGBT Module
High short circuit capability, self limiting short circuit current
IGBT CHIP(Trench+ Field Stop technology)
VCE(sat) with positive temperature coefficient
Fast switching and short tail current, Low switching losses
Free wheeling diodes with fast and soft reverse recovery
Temperature sense included
YZPST IGBT modules applications
IGBT Module,900A IGBT Module,short tail current IGBT Module,Fast switching IGBT Module
YANGZHOU POSITIONING TECH CO., LTD. , https://www.yzpst.com