What is a circular concrete pipe?

Circular concrete pipes have a circular cross-section measured at 90 degrees to the direction of flow and are typically used as part of a drainage system for the conveyance of foul and surface water.

They can also be used for attenuation storage and the subsequent controlled release of surface water in sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).

Other uses include culverting of watercourses where construction can create an obstruction to the natural flow path.

Precast concrete pipes are classified structurally as rigid systems. They have flexible joints which enable ground movement to be accommodated along the length of the pipeline.

Why use a circular concrete pipe?

Precast concrete pipes can be a more sustainable, lower carbon system when the following is considered:

• A full surround of granular bedding material is not always required, resulting in reduced installation costs, lower environmental impacts and less transport movements to site for the delivery of granular and from site for the disposal of excavated soil.
• Precast concrete is strong and durable, providing asset owners with low whole life costs and a proven service life of more than 100 years.
• Concrete pipes are resilient against damage from high pressure water jetting, a commonly used process for cleaning and blockage removal.
• Precast concrete pipes are a low carbon, sustainable product made from local materials that can be recycled end of life.
• Circular concrete pipes can be designed to withstand full highway vehicular loadings and can be constructed with minimal depth of cover.
• Circular concrete pipes are able to retain their shape over their long service life, preserving structural integrity and hydraulic efficiency.