Recently, the use of buried flexible pipes is widespread and ever increasing trend in the construction field. In this paper, we present the result of an investigation pertaining to the pipe stiffness of buried unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) pipes. To estimate the mechanical properties of PVC pipe produced by the domestic manufacturers, tensile test specimens were prepared and tested. In addition, parallel plate loading tests for the pipes with 150mm and 400mm inside diameters were conducted. From the test result, the pipe stiffness according to the ASTM D 2412 (2008) is estimated.

Pultruded glass fiber reinforced polymeric plastic (PFRP) and FRP member manufactured by sheet molding compound (SMC) have superior mechanical and physical properties compared with those of conventional structural materials. Since FRP has an excellent corrosion-resistance and high specific strength and stiffness, the FRP material may be highly appreciated for the development of floating-type photovoltaic (PV) power generation system. In this paper, advanced floating PV generation system made of PFRP and SMC is designed. In the design, it includes tracking solar altitude by tilting photovoltaic arrays and tracking solar azimuth by spinning structures. Moreover, the results of the finite element analysis (FEA) are presented to confirm stability of entire structure under the external loads. Additionally, installation procedure and mooring systems in the Hap-Cheon Dam are discussed and the measurement of strain under the actual circumstances is conducted for assuring stability of actually installed structures. Finally, by comparison with allowable stress, appropriate safety of structure is confirmed to operate the system.