Analysis of fluidized zone in transparent soil under jet induced by pipe leakage

Jets caused by burst tubes erode the surrounding soil, eventually leading to issues such as ground collapse. It is therefore highly important to study the mechanisms of soil erosion caused by jets after pipeline leakage. To investigate the water–soil interaction mechanisms of pipe leakage, this study used transparent soil and developed a three-dimensional experimental device to observe the fluidization process. Changes in the boundary of the fluidization transition area were investigated, and a formula for calculating the soil damage area was derived. The results showed three different shapes of the fluidized cavity appearing in the fluidization process. The particles initially moved upward and then gradually transitioned into a state of backflow. The effects of particle size, upper load, and porosity on fluidization were also analyzed. It was found that soil with a large particle size and a lower porosity under a heavy upper load can effectively restrain fluidization. Therefore, large-diameter and dense soil can be used as pipe-covering material.