AKWAOTech Knowledge Sharing Session
Topic : Design of pipelines and pumping systems – review of current practices and recommendations
Date : 05.03.2026, Time 8 PM
Resource Person: Dr. P Raghuveer Rao, Principal Research Scientist, Department of Civil Engineering Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru
Link : https://meet.google.com/gsp-extd-hda
Abstract: Despite the availability of multiple IS codes, IWWA manuals, and international guidelines, the design of steel water pipes still involves significant ambiguity—particularly in determining wall thickness for a given diameter and internal pressure. Although mild steel has well-defined material properties and established design principles, current practices often rely on tables and charts rather than transparent, mechanics-based methods. This talk reviews the evolution and limitations of existing code provisions and examines key uncertainties related to deflection, overburden effects, steady-state and transient stresses, and combined loading conditions. A rational methodology based on strength of materials principles - rather than empirical tabulations - is proposed for more reliable and economical design. The talk also addresses hydraulic design considerations, focusing on pump head estimation and friction losses. Commonly used formulae will be reviewed, with discussion on their applicability and limitations in modern steel pipeline systems. This talk aims to promote clarity, consistency, and engineering rigor in the design of steel pipelines for pumping systems.
About the speaker: Raghuveer Rao has been a faculty member in the Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, since 1989. He serves as a Principal Research Scientist in the Department of Civil Engineering, where he is actively involved in teaching, research, and consultancy, with expertise in geotechnical engineering and pipeline engineering. Over the years, he has provided consultancy services in a wide range of specialized areas, including: soil investigation and dynamic soil testing, slope stability analysis, foundation design, surge analysis of water supply mains and lift irrigation systems, transient analysis of cooling water systems for thermal and nuclear power plants and surge analysis for slurry pipelines and crude oil pipelines. In addition to his academic and consultancy contributions, he has trained more than 700 engineers, significantly contributing to professional capacity building in geotechnical and pipeline engineering domains.
