Understanding Gravity Pipe Networks

Pipe network design in the AutoCAD® Civil 3D® software is divided into two types: gravity networks and pressure networks. Because the performance requirements for these two types of systems are so different, the approach to designing and constructing them is also quite different. In this discuss, we’ll begin with gravity pipe network design.
For a gravity pipe network design to be a success, it must meet the following basic requirements:

• The pipes must be sloped enough for water to flow through them.
• The pipes must be large enough to allow the expected amount of water to pass.
• The pipes must be far enough underground to avoid being damaged by freezing or by activities on the site.
• The pipes must not be so far underground that it is cost prohibitive to install them.
• Structures must be provided that allow people to access the pipes to perform maintenance.
• In the case of stormwater management, structures must be provided that allow surface water to enter the pipes.

These requirements relate to two basic types of gravity pipe design components: structures and pipes. This chapter describes these components as well as their relationship to each other when represented within a Civil 3D pipe network.

• Understanding Structures
• Understanding Pipes
• Exploring the Pipe Network