Corrugated Pipe Installation Guidelines

Proper installation provides structural integrity to a pipe system and is one of the most important determinates of its long-term performance. Pipe is generally classified in one of two ways - either flexible or rigid. Although both flexible and rigid pipe require proper backfill, the pipe/backfill interaction differs. Flexible pipe such as BDI's corrugated pipe, takes advantage of its ability to move, or deflect, under loads without structural damage. When flexible pipe deflects against the backfill, the load is transferred to and carried by the backfill. When loads are applied to rigid pipe (such as concrete pipe), on the other hand, the load is transferred through the pipe wall into the bedding. For both types of materials, proper backfill is very important in allowing this load transfer to occur; however, the flexible pipe/backfill interaction is so effective at maximizing the structural characteristics of the pipe that it allows the pipe to be installed in very deep installations, many times exceeding allowable cover for rigid pipe (when identically installed).

Recommendations for proper backfill and installation of BDI products are outlined below and follow the guidelines of ASTM D2321, "Recommended Practice for Underground Installation of Flexible Thermoplastic Sewer Pipe."

BDI Corr-A-Flex Single Wall Type C Corrugated Pipe

Trench Dimensions using crushed run aggregate or compacted soil envelope

Reference: ASTM D2321

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Corrugated Pipe Installation Examples