Chapter 7
Underground Installation of PE Piping
Figure 1 Pipe Trench
Note: When groundwater levels are expected to reach above the pipe, the secondary
initial backfill should be a continuation of the primary initial backfill in order to provide
optimum pipe support. Minimum trench width will depend on site conditions and
embedment materials.
Foundation – A foundation is required only when the native trench bottom does
not provide a firm working platform for placement of the pipe bedding material.
Initial Backfill – This is the critical zone of embedment soil surrounding the pipe
from the foundation to at least 6 inches over the pipe. The pipe’s ability to support
loads and resist deflection is determined by the quality of the embedment material
and the quality of its placement. Within the initial backfill zone are bedding,
haunching, primary, and secondary zones.
Bedding – In addition to bringing the trench bottom to required grade, the
bedding levels out any irregularities and ensures uniform support along the length
of the pipe.
Haunching – The backfill under the lower half of the pipe (haunches) distributes
the superimposed loadings. The nature of the haunching material and the quality
of its placement are one of the most important factors in limiting the deformation
of PE pipe.
Primary Initial Backfill – This zone of backfill provides the primary support against
lateral pipe deformation. To ensure such support is available, this zone should
extend from trench grade up to at least 75 percent of the pipe diameter. Under some
conditions, such as when the pipe will be permanently below the ground water table,
the primary initial backfill should extend to at least 6 inches over the pipe.
Secondary Initial Backfill – The basic function of the material in this zone is to
distribute overhead loads and to isolate the pipe from any adverse effects of the
placement of the final backfill.
Final Backfill – As the final backfill is not an embedment material, its nature and
quality of compaction has a lesser effect on the flexible pipe. However, arching
and thus a load reduction on the pipe is promoted by a stiff backfill. To preclude
the possibility of impact or concentrated loadings on the pipe, both during and
after backfilling, the final backfill should be free of large rocks, organic material,
and debris.
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