Introduction

page 2

Specifications page 3

Norms - Marking page 4

Certificates page 5

Cross-section of a pipe page 6

Dimensional table page 7

Pipe weight - Ring stiffness page 8

Creep test page 12

Junction system page 13

Hydraulic tightness page 15

Physical/mechanical characteristics of materials page 16

Resistance to chemical agents page 16

Abrasion - Resistance to UV rays page 17

Corrosion page 18

Accessories page 19

Transport and handling page 20

Laying page 21

Hydraulic dimensioning page 26

Loads design page 30

NOTE: Product dimensions here reported are for guidance only and are subject to standard dimensional tolerances.
Paladeri S.p.A. reserves the right to make, at any time and without notice, at its own sole discretion, all the changes that might
be convenient to improve the manufacturing process or enhance product performance.

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Introduction
Obsolete and inadequate sewer pipes, more and more intense rainfall, frequent landslides require innovative
solutions for the disposal of larger quantities of stormwater and waste. Pipelines, today, have to bear all
internal and external stresses that are potentially damaging to drainage systems.
In its factory in Villadose (Rovigo, Italy), the company PALADERI S.p.A. produces PALADEX, an HDPE
(High Density Polyethylene) pipe reinforced with an inner galvanized steel profile designed for sewers
and underground drain systems.

Its innovative technology, developed in Japan in the 1990s, allows to manufacture big size pipes featuring
an extremely high mechanical strength and low weight. As a result, transport and laying are much easier.

The innovative design of PALADEX pipes combines the typical properties of polyethylene - resistance to
abrasion, light weight, minimum frictional resistance, resistance to chemical agents, versatility and
ease of installation - with the properties of steel, having an elastic modulus 200 times higher than the
polyethylene.

PALADEX pipes are obtained thanks to a process of spiral winding of polyethylene and an omega - shaped
steel profile. Therefore, pipes consist of an inner layer in polyethylene, an outer structured wall in
polyethylene and a core of galvanized steel completely covered by a polyethylene-based
primer, which ensures a perfect blending with the two walls.
The combination of the two materials, along with the use of an omega-shaped profile,
ensures a performance that is by far better than other structured pipes in fiber glass,
concrete, cast iron or clay available on the market.
The presence of the steel has several advantages: a higher resistance to pressure
(up to 20 kN/m2), unequalled by other pipes in thermoplastic material; a smaller
outer diameter, requiring a reduced amount of raw materials and clear benefits
in terms of environmental impact and ease of installation; a better long-term
performance, with particular reference to deformation under constant load
and a creep ratio lower than other pipes made exclusively in polyethylene.

PALADEX, whose product range goes from pipes with nominal

diameter/inside diameter (DN/ID) from 400 to 2400 mm,
represents the best solution to business and technical
needs of designers, public bodies, and building
companies.

Furthermore, the low cost of PALADEX pipes

allows to reduce the expenses planned for
transport, handling and laying, thus having a
relevant impact on overall budgets.
PALADEX pipe, manufactured by an ISO
9001:2008 certified company, was awarded
with the IIP (Istituto Italiano dei Plastici)
marking in compliance with Italian standard
UNI 11434 in June 2012.

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Specifications

HDPE spiral pipe with galvanized steel reinforcement suitable for sewerage, non pressure underground
drainage and ventilation ducts, application area code U, produced according to UNI 11434 standard, by
ISO 9001 certified company and accompanied by compliance certificate issued by a third party certification
body accredited in the EA as per UNI CEI ISO/IEC 17065:2012 standard.
Structured spiral pipes, smooth inside and corrugated outside, reinforced with an omega-like profile in
galvanized steel (DX51D + ZF/Z class) complying with UNI EN 10346 requirements and entirely embedded
into the pipe wall.
Junction is made thanks to a male-female connection consisting of a female weld socket and a male component
equipped with an EPDM seal (complying with UNI EN 681 standard), housed in a preset slot assuring the
water-tightness of the junction (up to 1 bar pressure/0.3 bar vacuum) according to UNI EN 1277 standard.
Male and female components have the same properties as pipes, in order to ensure a constant inside
diameter and increase product resistance.

Ring stiffness classes according to EN ISO 9969:2008:

Class A (= 8 kN/m2) corresponding to SN 8

Class B (= 12 kN/m2) corresponding to SN12
Class C (= 16 kN/m2) corresponding to SN16

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Norms - UNI 11434

In January 2012, UNI (Ente Nazionale Italiano di Unificazione; National Agency for Standardization) issued
the UNI 11434 standard which applies to PE spiral tubes reinforced with a steel profile completely embedded
between pipe walls; pipes have a smooth inner surface with a diameter (DN/ID) from 400 to 2500 mm and
are used for sewage systems, to drain rainwater and as ventilation ducts (U marking).
Therefore, Italy is the first country in Europe to adopt a specific technical legislation concerning PE pipes
reinforced with steel, which stands as reference for the institution of a technical team working on a EU
document on behalf of CEN (European Committee for Standardization).
Taking into account the features of an innovative product, the working group SC8 (appointed by Uniplast to
draft the new standard) used the following references: American standard ASTM (American Standard Testing
Materials) F 2435-07; Israeli legislation IS 5302; Italian technical specification IIP (Istituto Italiano dei Plastici)
RP 1.1/CO, 2008; French technical specification 17/07-190; German DIN 16961; European EN 13476 standard.
European norms already issued by CEN and used as EN standards or implemented by existing international
standards (EN ISO standards) were used as testing methods.
Particular attention was paid to the calculation of ring stiffness, whose reference is EN ISO 9969 standard.

Marking

PALADEX pipes are permanently and visibly marked every 2 metres and feature at
least one marking per pipe, in compliance with UNI 11434 standard, par. 9.

Marking includes the following information:

N. of reference standard UNI 11434
Area of application code U
Manufacturer and/or brand name PALADERI
Nominal dimension (inside) Example: DN/ID 1200
Pipe class Example: A (= SN8)
Material PE/Fe
Date of production day / month / year
Certifying authority IIP

Marking is an essential element to enhance product traceability

required by ISO 9001:2000 standard and applicable laws related to
quality assessment and product certification.
Non-marked pipes are not compliant with any reference standard.

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Certificates
The systematic monitoring of business management systems
and strict compliance to applicable laws have made possible
the achievement of ISO 9001:2008 certificate issued by the Swiss
agency SQS.
PALADERI was the first Italian company to be allowed to use the IIP marking
(Istituto Italiano dei Plastici) for the production of PE spiral pipes reinforced by steel
and in compliance with UNI 11434.
PE pipes reinforced with steel have already been widely used for several purposes in the
USA, Israel, Japan, China and France for over a decade.
PALADEX pipes are manufactured in conformity with the technical requirements contained in the fol-
lowing standards / specifications: ASTM F 2435-07 (USA), IS 5302 (Israel), CSTB 17/07-190 (France).

Certificate
n. 676/2012 - Rev.1

Certificate BUREAU VERITAS

n. 771/001

Certificate ISO 9001:2008 Certificate ICECON n. 0419.1/2014

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Cross-section of a pipe

polyethylene

galvanized steel

polyethylene

pitch

male ring equipped with epdm seal

pipe length

DN/ID
inside
working length diameter

stopper ring
junction (detailed view)

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Dimensional table

Inside Average Average Minimum Average Average

nominal Minimum Maximum Inside Wall Outside Outside Diameter
diameter Inside Inside Thickness Diameter (Female
DN/ID Diameter Diameter S1 min OD component)

400 396 408 2,5 437 474

500 495 510 3,0 544 588
600 594 612 3,5 650 700
700 693 714 4,0 760 810
800 792 816 4,5 870 940
900 891 918 4,8 970 1045
1000 990 1020 5,0 1080 1160
1100 1090 1123 5,0 1180 1270
1200 1188 1224 5,0 1300 1400
1300 1287 1326 5,0 1411 1524
1400 1386 1428 5,0 1523 1661
1500 1485 1530 5,0 1633 1773
1640 1625 1671 5,5 1750 1880
1800 * 1781 1835 6,0 1955 2111
2000 * 1979 2039 7,0 2170 2344
2200 * 2177 2243 7,0 2390 2582
2400 * 2375 2447 7,0 2605 2813

Measures are in mm
Pipes from 1.0 to 13.40 m long are available upon customer’s request and following positive assessment by PALADERI
technical staff.

* under development

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Pipe weight
The particular and innovative polyethylene structure of PALADEX pipes, reinforced with an omega-like
profile in galvanized steel entirely embedded between two polyethylene layers, allows to manufacture an
extremely lightweight pipe, in comparison with the available alternatives having the same ring stiffness.
The average weight of a spiral PALADEX pipe DN/DI 1200 SN 8 is 70 kg/m, while an equivalent traditional
polyethylene spiral pipe weighs about 120 kg/m and a concrete pipe weighs more than 1900 kg/m.

The light weight of PALADEX pipes does not affect ring stiffness and ensures the following advantages:

Cheap price of pipes

Quick and cheap laying
Possibility to manufacture bars up to 13.40 m length without welding
Possibility to store pipes of smaller diameter within larger pipes, so as to reduce the cost of transport
Not expensive equipment needed in work areas for handling operations

Ring stiffness

Ring stiffness, according to EN 476 (1997), standard, indicates pipe resistance to vertical
deformation due to external loads.

E•I
S=
D3
Where:

S pipe ring stiffness [kN/m2];

E modulus of elasticity with transversal bending [kN/m2];
I longitudinal inertial moment of the pipe wall, cross section for every unit
[m4/m]; the value is equivalent to the ratio I = s3/12 where s is equivalent
to pipe thickness;

D neutral pipe wall diameter [m].

Vertical deformation closely depends on the quality of surrounding

filling soil which supports the pipe on its sides and prevents its
ovalization.

Ring stiffness may be determined using the method reported in

EN ISO 9969 (2007) standard (see ch. 5-6-7-8 about apparatus,
sampling, testing and testing procedures).

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The formula for calculating the ring stiffness of structured

thermoplastic pipes using the compression test is:

(
S = 0,0186 + 0,025 •
y
Di ) •
F
L •y
106
Where:

y pipe diameter deformation (mm) corresponding to 3.0% of the inside diameter y/Di =0,03;

Di inside diameter of the pipe (mm);

F force (kN) corresponding to 3.0% pipe deformation;

L length of tested sample (mm).

In order to allow a thorough analysis of PALADEX pipe’s ring stiffness according to the new Italian standard
UNI 11434, it is appropriate to highlight the relationships between the existing standards concerning
structured thermoplastic pipes: the German DIN 16961 and the European legislation EN 13476.
These two standards classify the resistance to pressure by using different methodologies, so it is essential
to establish an equivalence to perform a comparison.
Both standards measure ring stiffness through a test carried out on a pipe section.
The test performed in accordance with German DIN 16961 requires the application, according to specific
parameters, of a constant load in order to measure the deformation after 24 hours. The value of ring
stiffness, calculated on pipe radius, is defined SR24.
The standard EN 13476 measures ring stiffness by means of a constant strain rate test in accordance with
EN ISO 9969: the value of ring stiffness, calculated on the pipe diameter, is defined SN (Nominal Stiffness).
The methods used in EN 13476 standard offer a number of advantages, both practical and technical.

Firstly, there is a total duration of a few minutes against the 24 hours required by DIN 16961.
Secondly, EN 13476 standard requires the instant application of a load that favours the measurement of
the pipe elastic modulus (E), which, for a polyolefin (PE or PP), features an elastic behaviour, i.e. dependent
on the speed of deformation and time.
The value of the instantaneous elastic modulus (E0) is easily measured in the laboratory by ordinary means,
through a simple tensile test of a few minutes and with a speed of deformation rate which is established
according to the standard. On the contrary, it is not as easy to check out the value of the modulus of elasticity
after 24 hours (E24).
The laboratory tests carried out in accordance with these standards and the equivalence between the respective
formulas shows the following relationship:

SR24
SN =
4
To sum up, according to DIN 16961, SR24 = E • I / r3, while according to EN 13476, SN = E • I / D3.
The relationship between the two variables - SR24 and SN - needs two correction coefficients concerning,
respectively, a) the relationship between the values of radius and diameter and b) the different behaviour of
the elastic modulus of the polyethylene as a function of the test duration.

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The equivalence between SR24 and SN can then be obtained in the following way: SN = k1• k2 • SR24

Where:

k1 is the radius / diameter correction coefficient;

k2 is the elastic modulus / test duration correction coefficient.

If D = 2r, the first correction coefficient will be: k1 = 13/23 = 1/8

PE elastic modulus E0 is equivalent to N/mm2. Following the application of a force for the duration of 24
hours, the value of E0 will be approximately halved.
As a result, E0 = 800 N/mm2, while E24 = 380 N/mm2.
The second correction factor will be: k2 = 800/380 = 2.
Therefore, the equivalence is:
1 • • SR24
SN = 2 SR24 =
8 4

PALADEX spiral pipe is manufactured in compliance with Italian standard UNI 11434, issued in
January 2012. This standard, in its Appendix A, identifies the parameters for the calculation
of ring stiffness. The use of the equipment, methods of sampling, treatment of specimens,
and test procedure are specified in EN ISO 9969 standard, which also refers to the EN
13476:2007 standard.
Appendix A also specifies that, with a deformation of the inside diameter corresponding
to 3%, PS (Pipe Stiffness in kPa) can be worked out by using the following equation:

F • 106
PS =
L•y
Where:

F force (kN) corresponding to 3.0% pipe deformation;

L length of tested sample (mm);
y pipe diameter deformation (mm) corresponding to 3.0% of the inside
diameter.

HDPE spiral pipes reinforced in steel are classified in three types

(A, B, C) related to their respective ring stiffness. Document n. 4
of UNI 11434 standard recaps Pipe Stiffness PS values and
deformation of the inside diameter (ID) = 3% for each class:

Class A PS ≥ 415 kPa

Class B PS ≥ 620 kPa
Class C PS ≥ 830 kPa

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In order to convert these quantities in the value S (Stiffness)

that is normally used in static calculations, you need to consider
that S = 0,0186 • PS so that:

CLASS A S8
CLASS B S12
CLASS C S16

The note to Document n. 4 of UNI 11434 clarifies that the value of ring stiffness S (Stiffness) for
classes A - B - C (with a 3% of diameter deformation), corresponds to the stiffness of structured
thermoplastic pipes having a ring stiffness SN (Nominal Stiffness) of 8 - 12 - 16 according to EN ISO
9969. Therefore, it is possible to create the following table of equivalence between the values of ring stiffness
defined by the parameters:

UNI 11434 EN 13476 DIN 16961

CLASS (S) SN SERIES (SR24)

SN 2 SERIES 3
SR24 8
(= 2 kN/m2) (= 8 kN/m2/ 4)

SN 4 SERIES 4
SR24 16
(= 4 kN/m2) (= 16 kN/m2/ 4)

CLASS A SN 8 SERIES 5
S8 SR24 31,5
(= 8 kN/m2) (= 8 kN/m2) (= 31,5 kN/m2 4)

CLASS B
S12
(= 12 kN/m2)

CLASS C SN 16 SERIES 6
S16 SR24 63
(= 16 kN/m2) (= 16 kN/m2) (= 63 kN/m2/ 4)

For example, a spiral polyethylene pipe reinforced with steel CLASS A (= 8 kN/m2) complying with UNI
11434 will have a ring stiffness equivalent to a structured SN8 pipe entirely in polyethylene complying with EN
13476:2007 and a structured pipe entirely in polyethylene SERIES 5 SR24 32 complying with DIN 16961
standard.

The product range of PALADEX pipes also includes pipes with a higher ring stiffness than what specified
in UNI 11434 standard.

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CREEP test
The effect of progressive deformation that can take place in piping systems is due to a constant load applied
in radial direction. This effect is defined CREEP.
The calculation of the minimum ring stiffness is only the first requirement when choosing a pipe. It is also
important to determine the incidence of CREEP in order to evaluate the long-term performance of the pipe.
The steel profile embedded between the two layers of polyethylene ensures a greater stiffness to PALADEX
pipes.
The blend of different types of material - HDPE and steel - determines a reinforcing effect of polymeric
materials and alters the mechanical characteristics and working conditions.
Steel, in particular, reduces the CREEP effect.
The following table shows data related to deformation - under - load tests, carried out on pipes having the
same diameter (DN / ID 800 mm) and ring stiffness (class A = SN8).
During these tests, the applied load caused an initial deformation Y0 equivalent to 3% of the nominal diameter.
As a further example, a PALADEX pipe complying with UNI 11434 and a corrugated pipe in polyethylene
complying with EN 13476 have been examined and compared.

% VARIATION OF DEFORMATION, DUE TO THE PRESSURE OF A CONSTANT LOAD;

PIPE RESTORATION AFTER REMOVAL OF LOAD

250

corrugated polyethylene pipe residual deformation

(%)

7 days after the removal

200
of the load (175%)
y-yo
yo

175
residual deformation
deformation under load (%),

48 days after the removal

150 of the load (137%)
137

100

spiral pipe PALADEX

50
residual deformation
7 days after the removal
5 of the load (5%)
0
0 10 20 30 40
time (days)

It has been observed that the CREEP effect takes place in both
cases. However, the deformation value after 40 days of load application
is about 4 times lower in PALADEX pipes.
Both pipes recover part of the deformation once the load is removed:
the corrugated pipe recovers approximately one third of the total
deformation after 48 days, while PALADEX completely recovers its
initial shape after 7 days.
PALADEX pipe, therefore, in spite of its deformable structure,
which means less rigid than the surrounding soil, is extremely
more resistant to ovalisation in comparison with an ordinary
structured thermoplastic pipe.
This shape-keeping property is a clear advantage during transport,
storage and installation operations.

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Junction system
One of the most relevant factors to determine the
quality of a pipeline is the ability to convey fluids and
prevent potentially damaging leaks in the junction
system.

Therefore, the junction between pipes is a crucial

issue, especially in those projects involving the use
of pipes with high internal diameter (e.g. DN > 1000
mm) and where groundwater flows affect the working
environment.

Although they are mainly non-pressure sewerage

systems and drains, it is necessary that the junction
system proposed by the manufacturer ensures
efficiency and long-term performance.

Junction is made thanks to a male-female connection

consisting of a female weld socket and a male component
equipped with an EPDM seal (complying with UNI EN 681 standard), housed in a preset slot, assuring
the water-tightness of the junction system (up to 1 bar pressure/0.3 bar in vacuum) according
to UNI EN 1277 standard.

“Male” and “female” components feature a structured spiral wall profile, smooth inside and corrugated
outside, reinforced with an omega-like profile in galvanized steel (DX51D + ZF/Z class) complying with
UNI EN 10346 requirements and entirely embedded into the pipe wall.
These manufacturing properties ensure a higher ring stiffness and increase product resistance in the
most critical sections of the pipeline - connections - thus reducing the deformation of the inside diameter
as much as possible.

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PALADEX junction system ensures an easy and

cheap laying and greater safety.
The “male” and “female” components are
manufactured in such a way as to make easy pipe
alignment and their assembling by using ordinary
equipment and tools.
Laying costs are quite low, since assembling does
not require any preliminary / completion steps.
The rigidity of the components compensates for any
inaccuracies during the laying phase, thus limiting
the risk of damage to the pipeline.

The male-female connection is very easy to accomplish,

thanks to a free-of -charge lubricant supplied by
our company and a stopper that guides the
connection.
The male element, when requested by
customers, can be equipped with a double
seal to increase the safety of the hydraulic seal.

It is possible, upon request, to connect PALADEX pipes through a plastic thermoshrinking

film positioned on the outer layer of pipes, after which the pipe inner surfaces can
be welded together by a common hand extruder.

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Hydraulic tightness
Junction system of PALADEX pipes (described in the
previous section) ensures the water-tightness of the system
(up to 1 bar pressure/0.3 bar in vacuum) according to the testing
methods specified in UNI EN 1277 standard.
These performances are possible thanks to essential features, such as the
rigidity of “male” and “female” components (both manufactured in the same way
as pipes) and the use of special EPDM gaskets.
As a further evidence, some test results on hydraulic tightness are provided below; the
tests were entirely performed in IIP laboratories on samples of PALADEX pipes, according to
UNI EN 1277:2005 standard.
N. 986/2011 certifies the tightness of the junction system of PALADEX pipes at an incremental pressure
up to 1.5 bar.
N. 1917/2011 certifies the tightness of the junction system of PALADEX pipes at a pressure of 1 bar for 30
minutes with angular deflection of 1°.
N. 1973/2011 certifies the tightness of the junction system of PALADEX pipes with double EPDM gasket at
a pressure of 1 bar for 7 hours with angular deflection of 1°.
N. 1981/2011 certifies a pressure loss of only 0.03 bar, corresponding to a percentage P3 = 3,3% due to the
application of negative air pressure (partial vacuum) for the duration of 60 minutes, where P3 = 0.8 bar + / -
5% with angular deflection of 1°.

Result: no loss

Pressure at the start of the test: - 0.80 bar

Pressure at the end of the test: - 0.77 bar
Loss at the end of testing: - 0.03 bar
% Loss P3: 3.3%

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Physical/mechanical characteristics of materials

PALADEX pipes combine the typical properties of polyethylene - resistance to abrasion, light weight,
minimum frictional resistance, resistance to chemical agents, versatility and ease of installation - with
the properties of steel, featuring an elastic modulus 200 times higher than the polyethylene.

Material Properties Standard Testing criteria Values

Polyethylene Density EN ISO 1183-1 > 0,930 g/cm3

EN ISO 1183-2

Polyethylene MFR = Melt Mass-Flow Rate EN ISO 1133 Temperature 190°C ≤ 1,6 g/10 min
(Melt Flow Index) Load mass 5 kg
Polyethylene Yield strength, σ y 22 MPa
Polyethylene Ultimate elongation ISO 6259-3 ≥ 500 %
Polyethylene Elastic modulus Short term Es 900 MPa

Long term EI 150 MPa
Polyethylene Thermal stability UNI EN 728:1998 Temperature 200°C ≥ 20 minutes
OIT = Oxidation Induction Time
Polyethylene Internal pressure resistance UNI EN ISO 1167 80°C; 4MPa
Polyethylene Coefficient of thermal UNI EN ISO 1167 0,22 mm/m • °C
linear expansion,α
Polyethylene Thermal conductivity 0,4 W/m • °C
Polyethylene Carbon Black ISO 6964 2 - 2,5 %
Steel Tensile strength UNI EN 10346 ≥ 270 MPa
Steel Elastic modulus 2,1 x 106 MPa

Resistance to chemical agents

As far as chemical resistance is concerned, PALADEX pipes ensure the same resistance properties as
traditional polyethylene pipes, in compliance with ISO TR 10358.
Material Concentration Temperature at 20°C Temperature 60°C

Acetone = -
Chloric Acid 10% + +
Chloric Acid 35% + +
Chloric Acid 75% + =
Fluoric Acid 40% + +
Formic Acid 30% + +
Nitric Acid 10% + +
Nitric Acid 95% - -
Sulfuric Acid 10% + +
Aniline + -
Benzene - -
Gasoline = -
Calcium Chloride + +
Glycerol + +
Ammonium Hydroxide + +
Sodium Hypochlorite + +
Methanol + =
Hydrogen Peroxide 30% + +
Sodium Hydroxide 30% + +
Carbon Tetrachloride - -
+ Resistant = slightly corroded, pre-treatment is required - Non Resistant
NOTE: If the fluid contains small quantities of corrosive chemical substances, please consult our technical staff for further information

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Abrasion
PALADEX, pipe inner surface is made of polyethylene
and this ensures a high resistance to abrasion.
As a result, pipelines may be also used for high flow speed
and slope (max speed up to 10 m/s) without producing relevant
abrasion effects on the inner surface.
The diagram shows how polyethylene pipes are more resistant to abrasion
than other pipes manufactured with other materials (concrete, coated concrete,
fiber glass, clay, PVC etc.)

AVERAGE ABRASION VALUES FOR PIPES MANUFACTURED WITH DIFFERENT MATERIALS

(UNIVERSITY OF DARMSTADT)

abrasion (mm)
2,0

coated concrete pipes fiber glass pipes

1,5
concrete pipes

1,0 stoneware pipes

PVC pipes

0,5
PE/PP pipes
0,25

cycles
0
50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450

Resistance to UV rays

The outside black PE wall of PALADEX pipe is resistant to damages due to environmental factors and UV
radiation, thanks to carbon black added to the fiber-reinforced polymer.
Therefore, PALADEX pipes can be kept and stocked outdoor.

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Corrosion
Polymeric materials do not require any protection
against electrochemical corrosion or galvanic coupling,
since they are not conductive.
Steel may be subject to such phenomena should it
come into direct contact with the fluids transported or
flowing outside the pipe.

The steel profile (class DX51D + ZF/Z complying with

UNI EN 10346, requirements) that reinforces
PALADEX pipes is entirely coated with a polyethylene
primer that ensures a perfect fusion with the two
polyethylene walls.

Every single batch of steel, used for the production

of PALADEX pipes, is firstly checked by using
a peeling test, which measures the strength
of adhesiveness of the polyethylene primer
to the steel, so as to guarantee its isolation
from internal / external agents.

The particular construction technology used for PALADEX pipes ensures a perfect union
between steel and polyethylene, thus avoiding the contact with water and preventing
any corrosion process.

PALADERI S.p.A. commissioned to C.T.R. (Centro Triveneto per la Ricerca e

prove sui materiali, Limena, PD) a test of accelerated corrosion in neutral salt
spray, in order to study the impact of corrosion on spiral PALADEX pipes in
a sea environment.

The PALADEX, samples used for this test were immersed in a basic saline
solution containing concentrations of NaCl e Na2SO4 higher than the
quantity specified in UNI 11130 standard; the samples were immersed
for 8 hours a day and left exposed to the air for the remaining 16 hours.

At the end of the 30-day test, the samples were visually inspected
and revealed the absence of delamination of the polyethylene from
the steel and the absence of any infiltration beneath the polyethylene
coating.
When the pipe is cut (generally at the entry of a manhole) or if
steel is not covered with protective layers, the open cut must be
treated as any other metal surface by using the materials
supplied by the manufacturer and protecting it from corrosion.
The protection of the steel profile can be restored by using highly
resistant epoxy resins and thanks to the specific experience
acquired in the field of PE pipelines reinforced by steel and
conveying oil products.

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Accessories
Upon request, PALADERI SpA is able to supply a complete
range of special components for every required diameter and
stiffness class, such as: bends, tees, clarinets, manholes etc.
All special PALADEX components are equipped with male/female
connections in order to be connected to other similar pipes or can be arranged
to be connected with different pipes (corrugated HDPE pipes, smooth HDPE pipes,
PVC pipes, etc.).

Manholes Clarinets

Tees

Bends

Accessories
Push-fits

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Transport and handling

Pipes must be handled according to the requirements generally observed with traditional pipes.
PALADEX pipes can be stacked up without any problems, thanks to their light weight and high ring stiffness.

Loading, transport, downloading and all related operations must be carried out with great care, by using
means and devices appropriate to the type of pipes and taking all the safety measures in order to avoid
breaks, cracks, or damages.

In building sites, PALADEX pipes have to be properly handled by using suitable lifting trolleys to be positioned
at the centre of the pipe and at the same distance from pipe ends.

Pipes will be stored in a flat and safe area.

The first row of pipes that is placed on the ground must be arranged
so as to avoid possible damages to the outer surface, bending and
deformation.
Stacked pipes must be protected with appropriate wedges in order
to prevent sudden falls.
Pipes will be stored in areas where they are not subject to
deformation and where there is enough room to handle and move
them. PALADEX pipes will be stacked up by alternating “male”
and “female” ends and placing the connecting component
outside the pile.

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Laying
Besides its performance, the proper functioning of a
pipeline and its reliability depend on the attention paid during
the installation process.
Mechanical and hydraulic properties can be altered if laying is carried out
by unskilled personnel or by using low-quality and not mechanically compacted
filling materials.

The remarks in this paragraph are simply meant to inform customers on the main points to
consider for a proper laying. However, they have to be necessarily integrated with all the
recommendations contained in the specifications or based on experience.

The main references used for this paragraph are the following:

Technical specifications on the pipeline systems, Decreto del Ministero dei LL.PP., 12 December 1985;
Official note issued by Ministero dei LL.PP., n° 27291, 20 March 1986;
UNI EN 1610 (Construction and testing of drains and sewers), November 1999.

PALADEX, thanks to its constructive features, allows an easier and cheaper laying, capable of balancing
possible negligences during the installation process.
The combination of light weight and high resistance, the small size of the outer diameter, a simple and safe
junction system ensure a quick and easy laying.

Burying and trench width

European standards legislation specifies that trenches designed to house sewers must comply with precise
requirements. UNI EN 1610 standard, in particular, says that narrow trenches must have a width which is
2-3 times bigger than the outer diameter of the pipeline.
The width of the trench must be the same for an area whose height is never less than one meter above the
crown of the pipe. In this area, walls should be as much vertical as possible and stabilized with a shoring
system for the protection of personnel working in the trench. Shoring will be removed immediately after the
partial backfilling and before compaction.
In case of a large trench, however, there should be an area protected against backfilling material such as
to comply as much as possible with the working conditions prescribed in the case of a narrow trench. As far
as dimensions are concerned, UNI EN 1610 standard states that the minimum width should be no less than
the upper value among those specified in the tables below, where OD represents the outer diameter of the
pipe (in metres).

Table n. 1 - Trench minimum width in relation to pipe nominal dimensions

Trench minimum width (OD + x) in m

DN Non - supported trench

Supported
trench ß > 60° ß ≤ 60°

400 ≤ DN ≤ 700 OD + 0,70 OD + 0,70 OD + 0,40

700 < DN ≤ 1200 OD + 0,85 OD + 0,85 OD + 0,40
DN > 1200 OD + 1,00 OD + 1,00 OD + 0,40

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Table n. 2 - Trench minimum width in relation to its depth

Trench depth (m) Trench minimum width (m)

< 1,00 Not required
1,00 ≤ p ≤ 1,75 0,80
1,75 < p ≤ 4,00 0,90
> 4,00 1,00

If two or more than two pipelines are required, the standard prescribes a minimum horizontal distance between
the pipelines:
- 0.35 m for pipes having a DN of 700 mm (included);
- 0.50 m for pipes having a DN of more than 700 mm.
Laying bed
Setting up the laying bed is one of the most difficult operations,
since the pipeline is to be installed with the right slope that
ensures a proper flowing of the conveyed fluid.
It is necessary to clear and level the laying bed as much
as possible, by eliminating the bumps that could damage
the pipes.
It is recommended to use sand and avoid the
use of materials with sharp edges that can
damage pipes. The laying surface, in any
case, will work as a permanent and
stable support to the pipeline.
In case of damages during laying
operations, pipes will be repaired,
if possible, or better replaced
with new pipes.
The UNI EN 1610 prescribes
that the thickness of the
laying bed is not below:

1100 mm in normal soil conditions;
150 mm in hard ground conditions (rocks/stones).

Once verified the evenness of the laying bed, measurements will

have to be very precise, so as to ensure the correct setup of the
pipeline slope.
In presence of groundwater, appropriate pumping systems will
allow to work in dry conditions.
Backfilling will be carried out in order to avoid the floating or the
collapse of the pipe wall.
The possible migration of the sand can be prevented by adopting
suitable geo-textiles materials.

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Pipeline laying
The pipeline has to be positioned in the centre of the
trench, after setting up the laying bed and checking soil level.
Junctions will be carried out by testing pipe alignment, the correct
position of seals and examining the inside of the pipe for extraneous
materials/debris.
Also the connection to manholes or tanks will follow the correct alignment of pipes,
avoiding anomalous stresses on pipes and junctions.
Once tested the correct altimetric and planimetric positioning of the pipeline, sockets and
pipes will be kept firm and steady by using sand; wedges should be avoided.

Backfilling and soil compaction

Backfilling and soil compaction are operations to accomplish in an accurate way, since they can affect the
duration and the whole performance of the pipeline.
Firstly, it is necessary to select the correct filling material, preferably sand, and in any case a material with
low granulometry, free of debris and stones. Filling material will be used all over the area surrounding the
pipes and at least 20 cm over their upper side.
It is recommended to use a type of soil which is compatible with the static behaviour of the whole trench and
the backfilling of its remaining part.
After completing the backfilling, it is necessary to carry out a very careful soil compaction, with particular
attention to the filling material along the sides of the pipes. The process of compaction should be performed
in more steps, by positioning layers (about 30 cm thick) in order to get a 90% Proctor degree.
The tools used for soil compaction will be different, so as to compact the soil in a homogeneous and regular
way and prevent any misalignments and abnormal stresses on the connections.
Manual compaction methods will work better on the sides of the pipeline; in particular, the first sideways
layers must exceed the pipe diameter in order to prevent its raising up.
Compaction will be carried out by using light tools up to a meter above the upper side of the pipe, after which
normal means of compaction can be employed.
The table that follows, included in UNI EN 1046 standard, summarizes the recommended thickness for every
soil layer and the number of steps required to obtain the different classes of compaction, depending on the
type of equipment and the filling materials.
The following table also reports the minimum thickness for every layer of backfilling material before carrying
out soil compaction.

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Table n. 1 - Compaction method (according to UNI EN 1046)

Compaction Number of passages Thickness after Minimum

for every compacting for every thickness before
method compaction class soil class (m) compaction (m)

B M N group group group group group

On foot or hand mallet (good)
(medium)
(without) 1 2 3 4 1-4
15 kg minimum 3 1 0 0.15 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.20
Vibrating mallet
70 kg minimum 3 1 0 0.30 0.25 0.20 0.15 0.35
Flat vibrator
50 kg minimum 4 1 0 0.10 - - - 0.15
100 kg minimum 4 1 0 0.15 0.10 - - 0.20
200 kg minimum 4 1 0 0.20 0.15 0.10 - 0.25
400 kg minimum 4 1 0 0.30 0.20 0.15 0.10 0.35
600 kg minimum 4 1 0 0.40 0.30 0.20 0.15 0.50
Vibrating roller
15 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.35 0.25 0.20 - 0.60
30 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.60 0.50 0.30 - 1.20
45 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 1.00 0.75 0.40 - 1.80
65 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 1.50 1.10 0.60 - 2.40
Double vibrating roller
5 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.15 0.10 - - 0.20
10 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.25 0.20 0.15 - 0.45
20 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.35 0.30 0.20 - 0.60
30 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.50 0.40 0.30 - 0.85
Triple heavy roller
without vibrations
50 kW/m minimum 6 2 0 0.25 0.20 0.20 - 1.00

Table n. 2 - Backfilling and compaction process

a) Manually compacted sand on

pipe sides.
b) Manually compacted sand until
the upper surface of the pipe.
c) Backfilling with sand up to 20 cm
at least above the upper surface
of the pipe.
a) b) c)

d) Mechanical compaction by
vibrating plate.
e) Backfilling by using uniform
material arranged in layers of 30
cm; mechanical compaction.
f) Further mechanical compaction
after the consolidation of the
backfilling.
d) e) f)

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Expansion
The thermal expansion of PALADEX pipe is not significant
if compared to other polyethylene pipes, but has to be considered
when involving temperature changes.

During ordinary operations (pipes are underground), the interaction with the
surrounding soil and its insulating properties will prevent any expansion, making
the calculation useless.

Nonetheless, it is advisable to calculate the length variation due to expansion every time it is
necessary to cut a pipe section.

Hereinafter the formula for calculating the thermal expansions: ΔL = α • ΔT • LO [mm]

Where:

ΔL change of length;

α coefficient of linear expansion, that is 1,7 10-4 [1/°C];

ΔT change of temperature [°C];

Lo length of a given pipe section [mm].

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Hydraulic characteristics
Thanks to the smooth surface of their polyethylene inner walls, PALADEX pipes have an excellent water
conductivity if compared to all other drainage pipes on the market (concrete, cast iron, steel, clay, fiber glass).
The excellent surface smoothness allows the design of draining lines that reach high flow rates at very low
longitudinal slopes.
The low hydraulic resistance prevents the presence of debris inside the pipelines, thus avoiding periodical
cleaning.
The nominal diameter of PALADEX pipes is based on their inner diameter, thus improving hydraulic
dimensioning.
The calculation of flow rate, given the values of slope and fill level, is based on the Gauckler-Strickler formula:

2 1
Q = KS • RH 3 • i 2 • A

Where:

Q flow rate [m3/s];

A cross sectional area of the flow [m2];

RH hydraulic radius (m), defined as the ratio of the cross-sectional area of a flow channel to the
wetted perimeter of the flow;

i longitudinal slope of the conduit;

KS roughness index according to Gauckler-Strickler which, for sewages in polyethylene, has

a value of 80 m1/3 s-1.

Flow speed can be calculated in the following way: v = Q/A

Where:

v flow rate within the pipe [m/s];

Q flow rate [m3/s];

A cross sectional area of the flow [m2].

The parameters A and R H can be calculated if the

fill level h/D is known (h = filling height; D = pipe
inner diameter), as we can see from the chart:
D h A

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The table below recaps the values for the cross

section of the conduit A and hydraulic radius RH calculated
according to the fill level h/D

h/D A/D2 RH/D

0,30 0,1982 0,1709

0,40 0,2934 0,2142
0,50 0,3927 0,2500
0,60 0,4920 0,2776
0,70 0,5872 0,2962
0,75 0,6319 0,3017
0,80 0,6736 0,3042
0,90 0,7115 0,2980
1,00 0,7854 0,2500

Example: for a pipeline with fill level h/D = 0,50 the cross-sectional area of the flow A will be 0,3927 • D2
and the hydraulic radius RH will be 0,25 • D

When dimensioning sewer pipelines, it is also important to test if tangential stress (measured in Pa), which
the flow generates on the pipeline bottom, can prevent sediment deposition.
Usually, this is the formula that is used:

Where:
τ = γRH • i ≥ 2Pa
γ specific weight of water [N/m3];

RH hydraulic radius [m];

i longitudinal slope of the conduit.

The following chart allows to calculate the hydraulic section that is required for a specific project:

1,0

0,9
Where:
0,8

0,7
Vp flow speed / partial filling [m/s]
0,6
Qp V flow speed / total filling [m/s]
Q
h
D
0,5 Qp flow rate / partial filling [m3/s]
0,4 Q flow rate / total filling [m3/s]
Vp
0,3
V
h/D fill level of the conduit
0,2

0,1

0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1,0 1,2

Qp Vp
e
Q V

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Table of flow rate values (m3/s) at different slopes for Paladex pipes

D (mm) 300 400 500 600 700 800
A (m2) 0,071 0,126 0,196 0,283 0,385 0,503
i (%) flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate
(m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s)

0,1 0,450 0,032 0,545 0,068 0,632 0,124 0,714 0,202 0,791 0,305 0,865 0,435
0,2 0,636 0,045 0,771 0,097 0,894 0,176 1,010 0,286 1,119 0,431 1,224 0,615
0,3 0,779 0,055 0,944 0,119 1,095 0,215 1,237 0,350 1,371 0,528 1,499 0,753
0,4 0,900 0,064 1,090 0,137 1,265 0,248 1,428 0,404 1,583 0,609 1,730 0,870
0,5 1,006 0,071 1,219 0,153 1,414 0,278 1,597 0,452 1,770 0,681 1,935 0,972
0,6 1,102 0,078 1,335 0,168 1,549 0,304 1,749 0,495 1,939 0,746 2,119 1,065
0,7 1,190 0,084 1,442 0,181 1,673 0,329 1,890 0,534 2,094 0,806 2,289 1,151
0,8 1,273 0,090 1,542 0,194 1,789 0,351 2,020 0,571 2,239 0,862 2,447 1,230
0,9 1,350 0,095 1,635 0,205 1,897 0,373 2,143 0,606 2,374 0,914 2,596 1,305
1 1,423 0,101 1,724 0,217 2,000 0,393 2,258 0,639 2,503 0,963 2,736 1,375
1,5 1,743 0,123 2,111 0,265 2,449 0,481 2,766 0,782 3,065 1,180 3,351 1,684
2 2,012 0,142 2,437 0,306 2,828 0,555 3,194 0,903 3,540 1,362 3,869 1,945
2,5 2,250 0,159 2,725 0,342 3,162 0,621 3,571 1,010 3,957 1,523 4,326 2,174
3 2,464 0,174 2,985 0,375 3,464 0,680 3,912 1,106 4,335 1,668 4,739 2,382
3,5 2,662 0,188 3,224 0,405 3,742 0,735 4,225 1,195 4,683 1,802 5,119 2,573

D (mm) 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400
A (m2) 0,636 0,785 0,950 1,131 1,327 1,539
flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate
(m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s)

0,1 0,936 0,595 1,004 0,789 1,070 1,017 1,134 1,282 1,196 1,587 1,256 1,934
0,2 1,324 0,842 1,420 1,115 1,513 1,438 1,603 1,813 1,691 2,245 1,777 2,735
0,3 1,621 1,031 1,739 1,366 1,853 1,761 1,964 2,221 2,071 2,749 2,176 3,350
0,4 1,872 1,191 2,008 1,577 2,140 2,033 2,267 2,564 2,392 3,175 2,513 3,868
0,5 2,093 1,331 2,245 1,763 2,392 2,273 2,535 2,867 2,674 3,549 2,809 4,325
0,6 2,292 1,458 2,459 1,931 2,621 2,490 2,777 3,141 2,929 3,888 3,078 4,738
0,7 2,476 1,575 2,656 2,086 2,830 2,690 3,000 3,392 3,164 4,200 3,324 5,117
0,8 2,647 1,684 2,840 2,230 3,026 2,876 3,207 3,627 3,382 4,490 3,554 5,470
0,9 2,808 1,786 3,012 2,366 3,209 3,050 3,401 3,847 3,588 4,762 3,769 5,802
1 2,959 1,883 3,175 2,493 3,383 3,215 3,585 4,055 3,782 5,019 3,973 6,116
1,5 3,625 2,306 3,888 3,054 4,143 3,938 4,391 4,966 4,632 6,148 4,866 7,491
2 4,185 2,663 4,490 3,526 4,784 4,547 5,070 5,734 5,348 7,099 5,619 8,650
2,5 4,679 2,977 5,020 3,943 5,349 5,083 5,669 6,411 5,979 7,936 6,282 9,671
3 5,126 3,261 5,499 4,319 5,860 5,569 6,210 7,023 6,550 8,694 6,882 10,594
3,5 5,537 3,522 5,940 4,665 6,329 6,015 6,707 7,586 7,075 9,391 7,433 11,442

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Table of flow rate values (m3/s) at different slopes for Paladex pipes

D (mm) 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900

D (mm) 300 400 500
A (m2) 1,767 2,011 2,270 2,545 2,835
i (%) flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate
(m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s)

0,1 1,316 2,325 1,373 2,761 1,430 3,246 1,486 3,780 1,540 4,367
0,2 1,860 3,288 1,942 3,905 2,022 4,590 2,101 5,346 2,178 6,175
0,3 2,279 4,027 2,379 4,783 2,477 5,622 2,573 6,548 2,668 7,563
0,4 2,631 4,650 2,747 5,523 2,860 6,492 2,971 7,561 3,080 8,733
0,5 2,942 5,198 3,071 6,175 3,198 7,258 3,322 8,453 3,444 9,764
0,6 3,222 5,695 3,364 6,764 3,503 7,951 3,639 9,260 3,772 10,696
0,7 3,481 6,151 3,634 7,306 3,784 8,588 3,930 10,002 4,075 11,553
0,8 3,721 6,575 3,885 7,810 4,045 9,181 4,202 10,692 4,356 12,351
0,9 3,947 6,974 4,120 8,284 4,290 9,738 4,457 11,341 4,620 13,100
1 4,160 7,352 4,343 8,732 4,522 10,264 4,698 11,955 4,870 13,809
1,5 5,095 9,004 5,319 10,695 5,539 12,571 5,754 14,641 5,965 16,912
2 5,883 10,397 6,142 12,349 6,395 14,516 6,644 16,906 6,888 19,528
2,5 6,578 11,624 6,867 13,807 7,150 16,230 7,428 18,902 7,701 21,833
3 7,206 12,733 7,522 15,125 7,833 17,779 8,137 20,706 8,436 23,917
3,5 7,783 13,754 8,125 16,337 8,460 19,203 8,789 22,365 9,111 25,834

D (mm) 2000 2100 2200 2300 2400
A (m2) 3,142 3,464 3,801 4,155 4,524
flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate flow speed flow rate
(m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s) (m/s) (m3/s)

0,1 1,594 5,007 1,646 5,702 1,698 6,456 1,749 7,268 1,800 8,141

0,2 2,254 7,081 2,328 8,064 2,402 9,130 2,474 10,278 2,545 11,514

0,3 2,760 8,672 2,852 9,877 2,941 11,181 3,030 12,589 3,117 14,101

0,4 3,187 10,013 3,293 11,405 3,396 12,911 3,499 14,536 3,599 16,283

0,5 3,564 11,195 3,681 12,751 3,797 14,435 3,912 16,252 4,024 18,205

0,6 3,904 12,264 4,033 13,968 4,160 15,813 4,285 17,803 4,408 19,942

0,7 4,217 13,247 4,356 15,087 4,493 17,080 4,628 19,229 4,761 21,540

0,8 4,508 14,161 4,657 16,129 4,803 18,259 4,948 20,557 5,090 23,028

0,9 4,781 15,020 4,939 17,107 5,095 19,367 5,248 21,804 5,399 24,424

1 5,040 15,833 5,206 18,033 5,370 20,414 5,532 22,983 5,691 25,746

1,5 6,172 19,391 6,376 22,085 6,577 25,002 6,775 28,149 6,970 31,532

2 7,127 22,391 7,363 25,502 7,595 28,870 7,823 32,503 8,048 36,410

2,5 7,968 25,034 8,232 28,512 8,491 32,278 8,747 36,340 8,998 40,707

3 8,729 27,423 9,018 31,233 9,302 35,359 9,581 39,808 9,857 44,593

3,5 9,428 29,620 9,740 33,736 10,047 38,192 10,349 42,998 10,647 48,166

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Loads design
Maximum allowable deformation
PALADEX pipe is included in the category of the so called “flexible” pipes, unlike the pipes defined “rigid”
(concrete, cast-iron, clay etc.), which means that vertical deformation closely depends on the quality of
surrounding filling soil which supports the pipe on its sides and prevents its ovalization.
According to international standards related to laying and testing polyethylene pipes, the methods for
calculating loads and deformations of flexible pipes are based on the maximum allowable perpendicular
deformation as a result of outside loads, caused by soil pressure, road vehicles and groundwater.
In order to ensure a proper loads design, it is necessary to establish the granule-metric and compaction
characteristics of the filling soil used during the laying.

The methodology of analysis used herein is the one developed by Spangler and modified by Barnard, as we
can see in the following formula:

[( d1 • qt) + qm + qf] • Kx
∆v = [m]
8 • SN + 0,061 • E
Where:

Δv deformation [m];

d1 auto-compaction factor;

qt load due to filling soil [N/m];

qm vertical loads due to pressure from a surface road (weight of asphalt, vehicles
etc.) [N/m];

qf loads due to groundwater [N/m];

Kx coefficient related to support angle;

SN ring stiffness [N/m2];

E soil modulus of resistance [N/m2].

The auto-compaction factor d1 is 1.5 in case of low compaction and 2

in case of medium compaction.

The values for KX, related to the support angle, are recapped in the table below:
Support angle 0° 90° 120° 180°

Kx 0,110 0,096 0,090 0,083

By increasing the support angle, the values for KX and deformation will be lower and lower.
If you use flexible pipes, it is recommended to create a laying bed that allows a support angle between
90°and 120°.

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The calculation of soil modulus of resistance (E) can be

obtained in the following way:

E = ES (soil elastic reaction modulus) • r (pipe radius)

The value of ES is related to soil compaction and granulometry, according to the values
(106 N/m2) recapped in the table below.
Filling materials
Fine-grained soil: Fine-grained soil: Coarse-grained soil: Coarse-grained soil: Coarse-grained soil: Smashed
group 4 with less group 4 with more group 3 with more group 2 with less group 1 with less up rock:
than 25% of coarse - than 25% of coarse - than 12% than 12% of finegrained than 12% of finegrained group 1
grained particles grained particles of particles particles particles

0.34 0.69
0.69
75% - 78%
1.40 2.80
SOIL COMPACTION (PROCTOR DENSITY)

79% - 80% 1.4

2.80
81% - 83% 1.4 6.9
1.40 2.80
84% 6.90
85% 6.90
13.80
86% - 89% 2.80 6.90
6.90
90% - 92%
13.80 20.70
93% - 94% 6.90 13.80
2.80 6.90
95%
13.80 20.70 20.70
96%
97% 20.70

96% -100% 20.70 20.70

Randomly discharged and without proctor density check

Class N: No compaction, but including proctor density check
Class M: Medium compaction
Class B: Good compaction

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According to Spangler equation:

Max deformation = load exerted onto the pipe / pipe stiffness + soil stiffness.

Calculation of soil loads

The load exerted by the covering soil onto the pipe depends on several factors: the type of trench, the typology
of materials used for the covering, the possible presence of groundwater and the overall height of the covering
soil on the upper surface of the pipe.

Types of trench
The ratio between the geometrical dimensions of the trench (width B and height H) and the outer diameter
(De) of the pipeline can single out three types of trench.
The size of PALADEX pipes, on equal hydraulic section and ring stiffness values, is lower than traditional
corrugated pipes, which allows a reduction of the trench width

B
1
Narrow trench:
1: Filling soil
B ≤ 3De H ≥ 2B
H

De

A trench is considered ‘narrow’ if its width is lower than/equivalent to the triple

of the pipe outside diameter and its height is equivalent/more than the double
of its width B
H

Large trench:

3De < B < 10De H ≤ 2B

De

A trench is considered ‘large’ if its width is between three/ten

times the pipe outside diameter and its height is equivalent
to/lower than the double of its width.

1 2
Endless trench or bank
H

B ≥ 10De H ≤ 2B 1: Filling soil

2: New soil level

A trench is considered ‘endless’ if its more than ten times De

the pipe outside diameter and its height is equivalent to/lower
than the double of its width.

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Calculation of soil load (qt)

for a narrow trench
In case of a narrow trench, pipes do not support the full weight
of the filling soil, which is partially withstood by the friction between
soil and side walls.
Therefore, the formula to calculate soil load qt is:

qt = C • γt • De • B [N/m]

Where:

qt soil load [N/m];

C soil loading rate;
γt specific weight of the filling soil [N/m3] as specified in Table n. 1;
De pipe outside diameter [m];
B trench width [m].

Soil loading rate can be calculated in the following way:

1-e
(- 2 K • tanθ • H
•
B
)
C=
2 • K • tanθ
Where:

θ friction angle between the filling material and the side walls of the trench (see Table n. 2);
H covering height of the pipe measured from the upper surface [m];
B trench width [m].
1 - sinø
K Rankine’s dimension-less coefficient, calculated as: K=
1 + sinø

Where:

ø inner friction angle of filling material, as specified in Table n. 3.

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Table n. 1 - Specific weight of the filling material Table n. 3 - Inner friction angle of the filling material
Type of soil Specific weight [n/m3] Filling material Angle Ø

Granular soil, without cohesion 17.000 Plastic Clay 11° - 12°

Sand and gravel 19.000 Morbid soil 12°
Saturated rural soil, clayey 20.000 Normal clay 14°
Normal solid clay 21.000 Clayey loess 18°
Saturated clay 22.000 Sandy marl 20°
White marl 22°
Very solid marl 24°
Green marl 26°
Wet sand 30°
Non-pressed fine sand 31°
Sand and gravel 33°
Table n. 2 - Friction angle between the filling material and Gravel and stones 37°
the side walls of the trench Big stones 44°

Filling material

Original soil Sand Gravel

Smooth rocks 25° 30°
Marl 30° 35°
Schistose rocks 35° 40°

Calculation of soil load (qt) for large/endless trenches

In case of a large or endless trench, pipes will withstand the overall weight of
the filling soil.
Therefore, qt will be equivalent to:

qt = γt • De • H [N/m]

Where:

qt soil load [N/m];

γt specific weight of the filling soil [N/m3] as specified in Table n. 1;

H covering height of the pipe measured from the upper surface [m];

De pipe outside diameter [m].

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Calculation of surface vertical

overloads (qm)

Vertical overloads are due to surface stresses, movable or fixed

ones, acting onto the filling soil. Overloads can be sharp-type (the
pressure of a motor vehicle tyre) or spread-type (the weight of an asphalt
road).
This issue is here simplified by considering the stress coming from a load placed vertically
above the pipeline in an endless trench.

The pertinent formula is:

3 P j [N/m]
qm =
( )
• •
2•π D
H+ e
2000
Where:

qm vertical loads due to pressure from a surface road [N/m];

P surface load [N];

H covering height of the pipe measured from the upper surface [m];

De pipe outside diameter [m];

j corrective coefficient for loads typology.

In particular for:

j =1 static loads

j =1+ 0,3 dynamic road loads

H
j =1+
0,6 dynamic railway loads
H

Stresses due to road traffic are summarized in the following table:

Table n. 4 - Road loads according to traffic type

Traffic type Total load (N) Max load per wheel

(N)
Heavy 600.000 100.000

450.000 75.000
Medium 300.000 50.000

120.000 20.000 front. 40.000 back.
Light
60.000 20.000

Car 30.000 10.000

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Calculation of loads due to groundwater (qf)

The load due to groundwater can affect the pipeline and cause a further stress q f according to the
formula:

qf = γw • ( H - H1 + De
2000 ) [N/m]
B
1

H1
H

1: Filling soil
2: Groundwater

Where: De

qf groundwater load [N/m];

γw water specific weight;

H height of the covering filling measured from the upper surface [m];

H1 height of the covering filling measured above the groundwater [m];

De pipe outside diameter.

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