Understanding Pressure Pipes
on March 20, 2019
Like gravity pipes, pressure pipes are used to convey a substance, but the main difference, of course, is that the substance is moved by pressure rather than gravity. For this reason, elevations are not nearly as important to ensure adequate flow. They are important, however, to ensure that the pipeline has adequate cover to prevent freezing or physical damage and that it avoids underground obstacles, including other pipes. In the event of a conflict, because pressure pipe flow is not dependent on elevation, a designer will typically bend a pressure pipe to avoid a gravity pipe rather than the other way around. As discussed previously, the required bends will be a design challenge because of the available fittings and deflection angles.