Corrugated pipes have parallel ridges and grooves, made from steel or plastic, used in drains and gutters. Soil pressure supports the structure, and coatings protect against environmental factors. Liners can improve flow, and perforated pipes allow runoff to percolate. Joints are made with fittings or coupling clamps.
A corrugated pipe is a pipe with a series of parallel ridges and grooves on its surface. This pipe can be manufactured from steel or plastic such as high density polyethylene (HDPE) or PVC. It can be upholstered or lined. Corrugated pipe is used in applications such as drains where flexibility, durability and strength are important attributes.
Small size corrugated pipe can be seen in familiar uses such as the drain pipe used to carry runoff from gutters up the eaves of a house. The larger size pipes are used as gutters and drains under bridges and along roadways. The flexibility of corrugated pipe makes it more suitable for a variety of uses than plain rigid pipe. The degree of undulation is measured by the height of the crests; the higher the number, the greater the flexibility of the hose.
The structure of the underground corrugated pipe is partially supported by the surrounding soil. The ground pressure produces compression around the circumference of the pipe and effectively reduces the stress on it. Greater flexibility is linked to better performance over the life of the plant. Buried applications are costly and time consuming, so it is vital to have piping that extends the useful life of the installation. Corrugated steel or HDPE pipes are normally rated for a life of 50, 75 or even 100 years or more.
For applications that require pipe burial and resistance to environmental conditions, additional considerations must be considered. Soil pH and electrical resistance are relevant for corrugated steel pipe. Either the pH and resistance must be within the appropriate ranges, or the pipe must be coated to withstand the levels. Typical coatings for steel pipes include zinc plating, aluminizing, polymer and asphalt. Corrugated plastic tubing can tolerate a much wider pH range and has no conductivity; electrical resistance is not a factor.
The corrugation can produce friction within the pipe or trap debris in the ridges. In some applications, liner or lining can improve the flow of material through the pipe. The plastic pipe can be manufactured as corrugated on the outside and smooth on the inside.
Pieces of corrugated pipe are joined by a variety of methods. Some pipes are constructed with fittings called a ball and cock at either end of a section. The sections fit together with a gasket to seal the tube. Pipe sections can also be joined using coupling clamps with or without gasket. Corrugated pipes can be produced in long lengths and delivered in coils to the installation site; sections are cut only as needed to minimize the number of joints.
The use of this pipe for underground drainage is achieved by using a perforated pipe. The holes allow runoff to percolate into the surrounding land. To prevent soil intrusion, it can be covered with a mesh fabric which allows liquid to exit the pipe but prevents dirt and debris from entering.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
