The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Right Pipes For Your Underground Drainage Systems

Proper drainage system is a crucial aspect of any construction project and it ensures the efficient removal of excess water and prevents potential damage to structures. Underground drainage pipes play an important role in managing  the underground drainage system.  Choosing the right pipes for this system is essential for long-term durability and optimal functionality.  

Following are the factors to consider when selecting pipes for underground drainage systems:

Materials

The choice of material for underground drainage pipes is an important decision that impacts the system's performance and longevity. Common materials are PVC pipes and HDPE pipes.  PVC pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective. They have high chemical resistance and are durable, making them suitable for various drainage applications.  Similarly, HDPE underground drainage pipes are known for their strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. They are also lightweight  and have a long service life, making them suitable for underground drainage systems. These pipes are mostly  effective in areas with unstable soils, as they can withstand ground movement.  Some underground drainage pipes are made of concrete pipes and they are durable and provide excellent structural strength and form a good  underground drainage system. Quality underground drainage pipes are resistant to fire and can handle heavy loads, making them suitable for specific underground drainage needs.

Size and Capacity  

Choosing the appropriate size and capacity of underground drainage pipes is an important point for ensuring effective water flow and preventing system overload. It depends on various factors like expected flow rates, the type of waste being conveyed, local regulations, and the topography of the area. You need to understand and identify whether the system is intended for storm water drainage, sanitary sewage, or a combination of both. The diameter of the pipes determines their capacity. You need to consider the required underground drainage pipe’s size to handle peak flow conditions and prevent flooding.

Flow Rate

You need to evaluate the expected flow rates based on the area's rainfall and the purpose of underground drainage systems. You should choose pipes with diameters that can accommodate the intended flow without causing blockages.

Slope

You need to ensure that the underground drainage pipes have the appropriate slope to facilitate the smooth flow of water. A well-designed gradient prevents stagnant water and minimizes the risk of blockages.

Conditions of Soil

The soil composition in the installation area  plays an important role in determining the suitable type of underground drainage pipes or underground drainage systems. Different soils have varying levels of acidity and corrosiveness. You should choose the underground drainage pipes that are resistant to soil-induced corrosion. For expansive or clayey soils, flexible pipes like HDPE may be preferable to accommodate ground movements.

 Resistance to Chemical

Generally, underground drainage pipes are known for their chemical resistance making them suitable for a range of soil conditions making the  underground drainage systems efficient and robust . You may  assess the soil for any potential chemicals that could degrade certain pipe materials

Installation

Efficient installation plays for the overall effectiveness of the underground drainage system.  You should choose pipes that are easy to handle and install as it may reduce  labor costs and installation time.

Jointing

You should also check the jointing methods compatible with the chosen underground drainage pipes. Some materials like PVC, often utilize solvent  welding for secure and leak-free joints.

Accessibility for Maintenance

You should consider the accessibility of the pipes for future maintenance and potential repairs. You may plan for access points or inspection chambers to facilitate regular checks and cleaning.

Environmental Friendliness

Sustainable choices in construction materials contribute to environmentally responsible practices.  You should look into the recyclability of the chosen pipe material to minimize environmental impact.

Energy Consumption

You should consider the energy required for the production and transportation of the pipes. Opt for materials that have an overall environmental footprint.

Compliance with Standards

While looking for quality underground drainage pipes and  underground drainage systems, you should ensure that the selected pipes meet industry and regulatory standards. You may look for certification and compliance with relevant codes and specifications to guarantee the quality and performance of the drainage system.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pipes for underground drainage systems involves a careful evaluation of various factors, including material properties, size and capacity, soil conditions, installation considerations, environmental impact, and compliance with standards. By taking a comprehensive approach to these considerations, you can ensure the longevity, efficiency, and sustainability of your underground drainage system.

APL Apollo Underground Drainage Pipes and Underground Drainage Systems

All your above requirements are fulfilled by APL Apollo Non-Pressure Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC-U).  These underground drainage pipes make underground drainage systems durable. APL Apollo’s rigid pipes are known for their strong surface and tensile strength. These pipes boast high compressive ratings and a reliable safety factor. These pipes are primarily utilized in underground drainage systems, they are also designed for transporting both surface and potable water.  In addition to it, these PVC-U pipes have widespread application in industrial and civil high-rise buildings for both internal and external discharge piping.