Computational Tool Development for Thrust Blocks Design in Pressurized Pipeline Systems

Resumo

Thrust blocks are essential concrete structures designed to counteract hydraulic forces in pressurized pipeline systems. These concrete blocks are crucial for preventing structural failures, such as pipeline ruptures, leaks, or misalignments, which can lead to significant safety hazards and economic losses. Despite their importance, the design of thrust blocks is often carried out manually or using spreadsheets, processes that can be time consuming and prone to inaccuracies. To overcome these challenges, this work presents the development and validation of a computational tool named ProBlocos, created to assist in the design and safety verification of thrust blocks for pressurized pipelines. Developed in Python with a user-friendly graphical interface built using the PySimpleGUI and PIL libraries, ProBlocos offers an accessible, low-cost, and efficient solution for civil engineering professionals and students. The tool is organized into three main modules: input fields for geometric and material parameters, an automatic report generator displaying safety verification results, and a sketch module that visually represents the designed thrust block. The underlying methodology is based on the verification of horizontal sliding, overturning, and vertical stress conditions, in accordance with established engineering principles. The tool was validated using real thrust block data, with results confirming its accuracy and reliability across multiple test cases. Its limitations include the need for complete data input to prevent runtime errors, the restriction to rectangular section thrust blocks, and the lack of unit conversion functionality. Despite the limitations, ProBlocos proves to be a practical and reliable resource, improving both the precision and visualization of thrust block design without requiring advanced programming skills. Its potential applications extend to sanitation and water supply projects, providing a streamlined and modern approach to the design of thrust blocks.