Ethan Clarke
Installing underground plastic tubing requires careful planning and execution to ensure system stability and performance. Plastic piping systems offer a cost-effective alternative to metal systems, but they may not be suitable for all underground applications and can be more labour-intensive to install. Proper installation techniques, such as trench size and compaction, are crucial to withstand external loads. Different types of plastic pipes, such as PVC, ABS, and polyethylene, are used for various applications, including plumbing, electrical, and gas systems. Adhering to local codes and ASTM standards is essential for a safe and successful underground plastic tubing installation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | High-density polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Polyethylene |
| Properties | Lightweight, flexible, easy to install, durable, corrosion-resistant, leak-resistant, heat-resistant |
| Use cases | Underground water supply, electrical, geothermal, fiber optic, communications, gas piping |
| Advantages | Lower maintenance, seamless connections, inexpensive, long lifespan |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic tubing for underground water supply
Plastic tubing is an essential part of any plumbing system. When choosing the right tubing material for an underground water supply, there are several factors to consider, such as the installation location, local regulations, and the specific requirements of the application. The tubing must be able to withstand a range of temperatures, resist corrosion and leaking, and be free of harmful chemicals.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most common types of piping for underground water supply. It is generally inexpensive, reliable, and durable, with a lifespan of over 100 years. PVC piping is rigid, which resists corrosion, and can be joined via threaded fittings or solvent welding (a gluing process). Fusible PVC is a new variety that is joined through a specialised thermal butt fusion process, similar to that used for HDPE pipe. However, the use of PVC for underground potable water transport is restricted in some areas due to concerns about the potential for chemicals to leach into the water.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is another suitable option for underground water lines. Unlike PVC, HDPE pipes are connected via plastic fusion, which avoids the use of joints or glues that can leak or degrade over time. In thermal butt fusion, a common fusion method, the pipe is aligned end-to-end and then melted together with high heat, creating a seamless connection. HDPE is extremely durable, flexible, lightweight, and easy to install using a variety of methods. It is also resistant to corrosion and can withstand shifting soils due to environmental conditions or events like earthquakes.
Other types of plastic tubing include flexible vinyl or rubber tubing, PEX tubing (ideal for hot and cold applications), polypropylene tubing (for heat resistance), and santoprene tubing (for exceptional mechanical properties). The choice of tubing material depends on its chemical compatibility, temperature rating, and pressure of the fluid in the application.
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HDPE pipe: connected via plastic fusion
HDPE, or high-density polyethylene, pipes are commonly joined using butt fusion, a type of heat fusion. This method involves heating the ends of two straight pieces of pipe to their melting point and then pushing them together to form a seamless joint. A fusion machine holds the pipes in place while a heating plate melts their ends, which are then pressed together and left to cool. This process creates a strong, leak-proof connection that is often stronger than the original pipe.
To prepare for butt fusion, the ends of the pipes must be cleaned and squared to ensure proper alignment and fusion. Any dirt, debris, or oxidation on the pipe surfaces should be removed to prevent contamination of the joint. The facing tool on the fusion machine can be used to create a clean, smooth surface for optimal fusion results. It is important to note that the fusion process requires proper training and certification to ensure the quality and integrity of the welded joints.
Other types of fusion techniques used for HDPE pipes include electrofusion and saddle fusion. Electrofusion is employed in tight spaces where butt fusion is not feasible. It involves using electrofusion couplers with internal copper coils that are heated to fuse the pipes together, creating a tight seal. On the other hand, saddle fusion is used to connect the concave portion of a pipe to an inverse saddle fitting. Both the concave portion of the pipe and the saddle fitting are heated and joined under pressure, forming a precise and complex connection.
HDPE pipes are commonly used in underground applications due to their ability to withstand harsh and corrosive environments. They offer a cost-saving alternative to metal systems and are flexible, allowing them to navigate complex underground spaces. However, installing plastic piping systems underground requires careful design and consideration of service conditions. Proper installation techniques, such as correct side fill and compaction, are crucial to ensure the system can withstand external loads.
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Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping: inexpensive and durable
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most common types of piping and is often used for underground water supply. It is generally inexpensive and is a reliable and durable material.
PVC piping is rigid and resists corrosion, with a lifespan of over 100 years. It is also known for its strong resistance to chemicals, sunlight, and oxidation from water. In terms of installation, PVC piping is joined via threaded fittings or solvent welding (a gluing process). However, a newer type of PVC piping called Fusible PVC® is joined through a specialised thermal butt fusion process, similar to that used for HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) pipe.
PVC is widely used in the construction and building industry due to its low cost and low maintenance. It comes in a range of colours and finishes, including a photo-effect wood finish, and is often used as a substitute for painted wood in window frames and sills. PVC has largely replaced cast iron for plumbing and drainage, being used for waste pipes, drainpipes, gutters, and downspouts.
Contech PVC pipe, for example, is engineered with high stiffness to resist trench loads and provides excellent hydraulic properties. It is manufactured from high-quality polyvinyl chloride material, making it abrasion and corrosion-resistant, and unaffected by acidic or alkaline soils and chemicals found in normal sewage discharge. Contech PVC Solutions offer advantages over traditional sewer and drainage products, providing economy and value.
Overall, PVC piping is a cost-effective and durable option for underground water supply, with the added benefit of corrosion and chemical resistance, making it a popular choice in the construction industry.
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Cast iron piping: rarely used in new construction
Underground piping is an important aspect of construction and infrastructure, especially for water supply. Cast iron piping was once a popular choice for builders due to its durability, strength, and ability to handle water flow. However, cast iron piping is now rarely used in new construction for several reasons.
One of the main issues with cast iron piping is its tendency to deteriorate over time, often from the inside out due to corrosion. This deterioration can lead to sewer backups and costly, messy repairs. The heavy weight of cast iron can also cause sinking and cracking in the ground. Additionally, the connections/joints in cast iron pipes often contain lead, which has known health concerns when consumed. While this is not a concern for non-drinking water applications, it is still a factor to consider.
Another drawback of cast iron piping is the potential for chemical reactions between the waste and the pipes. When hydrogen sulfide gas is present in the waste, it can create a chemical reaction with the cast iron, resulting in the formation of sulfuric acid and subsequent corrosion and rusting of the pipes. This rust can gather and block the line's flow, further exacerbating the problem.
While cast iron piping does have some advantages, such as heat resistance and noise-dampening properties, newer materials are generally preferred for underground water supply applications. These newer materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping, offer improved durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation. HDPE pipes, in particular, are connected via plastic fusion, avoiding the use of joints or glues that can leak or degrade over time.
In conclusion, while cast iron piping may still be present in older construction, it is rarely used in new projects due to its drawbacks and the availability of superior alternative materials.
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Underground piping for gas, electrical, geothermal, and communications applications
Underground piping is essential for gas, electrical, geothermal, and communications applications. It is important to choose the right piping material that can withstand hot and cold temperatures, resist corrosion and leaking, and be free of harmful chemicals. Underground pipes also need to be able to withstand a variety of soil and environmental conditions and be installed using methods suitable for the specific location.
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are a popular choice for underground applications due to their durability, flexibility, lightweight construction, and ease of installation. HDPE pipes are connected through plastic fusion, which involves melting the pipes together seamlessly using high heat, rather than using joints or glues that can degrade over time. HDPE pipes are also resistant to aggressive chemicals and road salts, motor oils, and fuels, making them a superior choice over traditional clay and concrete conduit systems.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are another common type of piping used for underground applications. PVC is known for its durability, corrosion resistance, and long lifespan of over 100 years. It is generally inexpensive and reliable, making it a cost-effective option for underground piping. Fusible PVC is a newer option that utilizes a thermal butt fusion process similar to HDPE pipes.
Underground piping is particularly advantageous for geothermal applications, where fluid is circulated from geothermal wells to power generation facilities. Burying geothermal pipes underground offers reduced visibility and decreased costs compared to above-ground systems. However, one of the primary challenges of underground geothermal piping is managing extreme temperatures, which can exceed 200°C. To address this, techniques such as increasing the number of expansion loops within the system or using alternative pipe materials like higher-strength steels and non-metallic piping have been proposed.
Underground ducting is also commonly used for electrical and communications applications. Non-metallic conduits and pipes are suitable for these applications, offering lower maintenance and reduced susceptibility to weather damage. HDPE pipes, in particular, are lightweight and flexible, making them easy to install through various methods such as trenching, jetting, pulling, and HDD (horizontal directional drilling).
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Frequently asked questions
Underground plastic tubing is used for utility, electrical, geothermal, fibre optic and communications applications.
Plastic piping is a cost-saving option compared to metal systems. It is also less susceptible to weather damage and requires less maintenance.
Plastic piping may not be suitable for every underground application and may be more labour-intensive to install.
The process for installing underground plastic tubing involves first digging a trench that is larger than the pipe to be installed. Then, install the foundation and bedding for the system, compacting the material to the spring line of the pipe.
Standard practices for installing underground plastic tubing include adhering to local code requirements and installing in accordance with the ASTM standard relevant to the type of plastic piping system. For example, ASTM D2774 for underground installation of thermoplastic pressure piping.
