What Does
Elastic Modulus Mean?
Elastic modulus (E) is a measure of the stress buildup associated with a given strain, or the modulus of elasticity of pipe material (psi). Trenchless technology requires pipes to be laid underground where they are subjected to loads from the soil above and extraneous loads from moving traffic. It is therefore necessary to ascertain the elastic modulus of a material to be used in the structural design of a project in order to prevent failure due to stress.
Also known as Young’s modulus, after Thomas Young.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Elastic Modulus
Elastic Modulus (E) can be expressed in an equation as E = Stress / Strain. The elasticity of a material allows it to return back to its original shape after distortion. The lower the E, the higher the resistance to sudden impact and high stress. In pipes, a lower E provides higher flexibility and prevents crack formation. Metals used in the manufacturing of drain pipes offer good predictability with regard to response when force is applied. This is because the elastic modulus is constant because of the relatively linear relationship between deformation (strain) and load (stress), which is essential for structural design. The linear relationship between stress and strain continues until it reaches the threshold, or yield point, which represents the elastic limit. Upon reaching the yield point, the deformation of the material is permanent. A load released before the yield point is reached, irrespective of duration, will revert to its original shape.