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Approach

This project investigates how serrated and non serrated flange connections perform when exposed to external loading. The goal is to understand whether one connection type begins to leak earlier than the other. To evaluate this, a series of four point bending tests were performed on Mueller Resilient Wedge Gate Valves with applied axial load.

The tested specimens were commercially available six inch ductile iron pipes that meet AWWA C600 standards. Each flange type, serrated and non serrated, was tested twice. Displacement was applied at a rate of one inch per minute for all tests.

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Results

Several key observations were recorded during testing, including the locations of the first and second leaks and the leak rates associated with each failure point. These measurements were used to compare the two flange connection types and identify which configuration showed earlier or more significant leakage under load.

The results provide insight into how the surface condition of flange faces can influence sealing performance and reliability during external loading events.

Implications

Understanding how different flange face designs behave under combined bending and axial loading can help water utilities and industry partners make informed decisions about installation practices and material selection. The findings support safer and more cost effective maintenance planning for buried pipeline systems and critical valve connections.

These results can also guide manufacturers in refining flange face designs to limit leakage risk and improve long term performance across a variety of loading conditions.