Installation

Guide
for
PVC
Water Pipe
January 1999 Edition

Copyright January, 1999 PWEagle

Preface
This booklet is intended for use by installers, supervisors, and inspectors responsible for the installation of
PWEagles PVC water pipe. It is not a design manual. Rather
it is intended as a guide for the proper handling, installation,
and testing of PVC pressure water pipe. If used properly,
this information can maximize product performance and minimize the possibility of field problems.
This guide is not intended to assume the authority of
the engineer. Because system requirements and actual field
conditions may vary significantly, the sole responsiblity for
all design and installation decisions lies with the project
engineer.

THIS
PAGE
IS
BLANK

Table of Contents
Chapter I
General Information

Chapter II
5
Receiving, Unloading, Storage,
and Handling
Chapter III
Trench Construction

13

Chapter IV
Pipe Assembly

29

Chapter V
Testing

43

Chapter VI
Service Connections

49

Chapter VII
Special Considerations

67

Index

79

THIS
PAGE
IS
BLANK

Chapter I

General Information

Specifications
PWEagle produces PVC municipal water (Cast Iron Pipe
Size) pipe in conformance with AWWA C900 and C905,
IPS (Iron Pipe Size) pipe in conformance with ASTM D 2241
and D 1785 and PIP (Plastic Irrigation Pipe) in conformance ASAE and SCS specifications. PWEagle recommends
that pipe be installed according to this guide, AWWA C605,
AWWA Manual M23, and ASTM D 2774.

Warranty
PWEagle warrants that its PVC pipe products were
manufactured in accordance with applicable materials and
product specifications, and that the pipe is free from all defects in materials and workmanship using the applicable
specifications as a standard.
Every claim under this warranty shall be deemed waived
unless presented in writing and received by PW Eagle within
sixty (60) days of the date the defect was, or should have
been discovered or within two (2) years of the date of
PWEagles shipment of the product, whichever occurs sooner.
PWEagle makes no other warranty or representation of any kind, expressed or implied, in fact or in law,
including without limitation the warrant of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, other than the
limited warranty set forth above.

Limitation of Liability
It is expressly agreed that the limit of PWEagles liability
is the replacement of defective product with the same quantity of non-defective product, and that PWEagle shall have
no such liability unless the claim results solely from breach
of PWEagles warranty.
In no event shall PWEagle be liable for any incidental or consequential damages of any kind, including
without limitation, any expense or removal or reinstallation resulting from any defect.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights which
vary from state to state.

Chapter II

Receiving,
Unloading,
Storage, and
Handling

Receiving
When receiving a pipe shipment, the contractor or
purchaser should exercise established precautions. Each
pipe shipment should be inventoried and inspected upon
arrival. The pipe was inspected and loaded with due
care at the factory using methods acceptable to the carrier. It is the carriers responsibility to deliver the shipment in good condition, and it is the receivers responsibility to ensure that there has been no loss or damage.

The following procedures are recommended for acceptance of delivery:

1. Make overall examination of the load. If the load is intact,
ordinary inspection while unloading should be sufficient
to ensure that the pipe has arrived in good condition.
2. If the load has shifted, has broken packaging, or shows
rough treatment, carefully inspect each piece for damage.
3. Check total quantities of each item against shipping
records.
4. Note any damaged or missing items on the delivery receipt.
5. Notify the carrier immediately and make a claim according to his instructions.
6. Do not dispose of any damaged material. The carrier will
notify you of the procedure to follow.
7. Shortages and damaged materials are not re-shipped
without request. If replacement materials are needed,
reorder from PWEagle or your distributor.

Unloading
The means by which the pipe is unloaded in the field is
the decision and the responsibility of the receiver. These
recommendations should be followed:
1. Remove restraints from the top unit loads. These may
be either straps, ropes, or chains with padding.
2. Remove any boards on the top or sides of the load which
are not part of the pipe packaging.
3. Using a fork lift with thin chisel forks (or a front-end loader
equipped with forks), remove the top units one at a time
from the truck.
4. If a fork lift is not available, use a spreader bar with fabric
straps capable of carrying the load. Space straps ap-

5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

proximately eight feet apart. Loop straps under the load.

Cables may be used only if they are cushioned to prevent damage to the pipe.
During the removal and handling, ensure that the units
do not impact anything (especially in cold weather).
Place pipe package units on level ground.
Do not handle units with individual chains or single cables,
even if padded.
Do not attach lifting cables to unit frames or bands.
Do not stack package units more than eight feet high.

10. Protect units with packing materials the same way they
were protected while on the truck.
11. To unload lower units, repeat the unloading process described above.
12. Do not unload by hand.
13. WARNING: DO NOT STAND OR CLIMB ON CRATES
OR CONTAINERS.

Storage
The following procedures are recommended to prevent
damage to the pipe:
1. Store the pipe at the site in unit packages.
2. Avoid compression, deformation or damage to bell ends
of the pipe.
3. When unit packages are stacked, ensure that the weight
of upper units does not cause deformation to pipe in lower
units.
4. Support pipe unit packages on wood blocking to prevent
damage to the bottom surfaces during storage. Space
supports to prevent pipe bending.
5. Store solvent cement in tightly sealed containers away
from excessive heat.
6. Do not store pipe where gaskets may be exposed to
ozone, grease or oil.
7. Protect pipe interior and sealing surfaces from dirt and
foreign matter.
8. When unit packages are stacked, ensure that the stack
remains stable.

Handling
The following procedures are recommended:
1. When using mechanical equipment, exercise care to prevent damage to the pipe.
2. Lower pipe carefully from trucks and into trenches. Do
not drop pipe.
3. In subfreezing temperatures, use caution to prevent impact damage. Handling methods considered acceptable
for warm weather may be unacceptable during very cold
weather.

10

4. When distributing pipe along a trench (stringing), place

pipe on the opposite side of the trench from the excavated earth. Place pipe with bell ends in the direction of
the work progress.
Note: Hydraulic flow is not significantly affected by
the direction of the bell ends.

11

12

Chapter III

Trench
Construction

13

14

General
1. Trench excavation should comply with all applicable laws
and regulations.
2. Excavated material such as debris and removed pavement is not suitable for trench backfill.
3. Where dewatering is necessary, water should be removed
until the pipe has been installed and the backfill has been
placed to a sufficient height to prevent flotation of the
pipeline.
4. The maximum earth load on flexible pipe is the weight of
the material directly over the pipe (prism load). Unlike
rigid pipe, the width of the excavated trench does not
affect pipe loading. Trench width is based solely on practical and economical construction.
5. See Figure 3.1 for trench terminology.
FIGURE 3.1
TRENCH CROSS-SECTION SHOWING
TERMINOLOGY

15

Narrow,
Unsupported,
Vertical-Walled
Trench
1. See Figure 3.1 for unsupported vertical-walled trench
cross-section.
2. The width of narrow trenches is the minimum working room required for a worker to place haunching
material. See Table 3.1.
3. In narrow trenches, pipe embedment should be
compacted all the way to the trench wall.
TABLE 3.1
NARROW TRENCH WIDTHS, MINIMUM
NOMINAL
PIPE SIZE

TRENCH WIDTH, MINIMUM

Diameter
(Inches)

No. of Pipe
Diameters

Inches

4
6
8
10
12
15
18
21
24

4.3
2.9
2.9
2.5
2.4
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.5

18
18
24
26
30
30
32
34
36

16

Sub-Ditch
Trench
The width of the subditch below the top of the pipe should
meet the minimum dimensions of Table 3.1.

Wide
Trench

1. In some soil conditions, it may be more cost effective to

use wide trench construction.
2. Wide trenches are trenches where the width at the top of
the pipe is greater than six pipe diameters (2.5 diameters on each side of the pipe.)
3. Compaction requirements:
a. Up to 10 pipe Compact to 2.5 pipe diameters both
sides of pipe.
b. 12 to 24 pipe Compact to two feet on both sides
of pipe.
4. Where trench widths are less than six pipe diameters,
compact to full trench width.

17

Supported Trench
1. This type of trench is used where unstable or flowing soil
conditions are present in the trench walls.
2. Methods of support include sheeting, bracing, trench
jacks, or trench box.
3. If conditions are extremely severe, it may be necessary
to grout the soil adjacent to the trench to prevent migration between pipe embedment materials and trench wall
soils.
4. See Table 3.2 for minimum trench widths.
TABLE 3.2
SUPPORTED TRENCH WIDTHS, MINIMUM
NOMINAL
TRENCH WIDTH, MINIMUM
PIPE SIZE

Diameter
(Inches)
4
6
8
10
12
15
18
21
24

No. of Pipe
Diameters
8.5
5.7
4.3
4.0
3.4
3.1
2.7
2.4
2.2

Inches
36
36
36
42
42
48
48
50
52

The table values assume trench support thickness of

six inches at each wall. Where thicker supports are used,
the values should be varied accordingly.
5. Where timber sheeting is used below the top of the pipe,
the sheeting should extend 2 feet (60 cm) below the bottom of the pipe and be left in place 1.5 feet (45 cm) above
the top of the pipe.
6. Compaction requirements: Compact the foundation and
embedment materials all the way to the trench wall or to
the sheeting left in place.

18

Movable Trench Support

1. When trench supports are being moved, care should be
exercised to prevent disturbing the pipe or its embedment.
2. Use of movable trench boxes should be limited to:
a. Wide trench construction where at least 2.5 pipe
diameters exist on either side of the pipe.
b. A shelf above the top of the pipe with the pipe
installed in a narrow, vertical-walled subditch.
3. To avoid these location restrictions, a modified box may
be used which allows compaction of bedding at bottom
cutouts. See Figure 3.2.
FIGURE 3.2

4. Any voids left in embedment material by support removal

should be carefully filled and compacted.
5. Removal of bracing between sheeting should be done
only where backfilling proceeds and bracing is removed
in a manner that does not relax trench support.

Trench Depth
1. Where frost depth is a consideration, pipe burial should
be 6 inches deeper than the record frost penetration.
2. Where frost is not a concern and live loads are not anticipated, a minimum cover of 12 inches is adequate.
3. Where live loads are significant, the design engineer
should consider such factors as size and type of equipment, impact, type of soil, and soil compaction in determining cover requirements.
19

Trench Bottom
1. The trench bottom should provide a uniform, stable support for the pipe.
2. The soil surface at the bottom of the trench should be
free of any irregularities that could cause point loads on
the pipe or bell.
3. Where an unstable trench bottom condition occurs, special foundations may be required. A layer of bedding
material should be placed between foundation and pipe.
4. Where rock subgrade or stones larger than 1-1/2 inches
are encountered, a minimum of 4 inches of bedding
should be placed under the pipe above the rock.

Embedment Materials
1. See Table 3.3 for soil classifications.
2. The high void ratio of Class I material limits its use to
areas where side support will not be lost due to migration of fines from the trench walls and bottoms. Where
such migration is possible, the minimum size range
should be reduced and the gradation designed to limit
void size.
3. Class II material should be well graded (not uniformly
graded or gap graded) to prevent loss of side support as
described in item 2.
4. For Class IV materials, caution should be exercised in
the design and method of compaction due to difficulty in
controlling moisture content in field conditions.
5. Class V materials are not recommended for bedding,
haunching, or initial backfill.
6. See Table 3.4 for degree of compaction information for
various compaction methods and embedment materials.
7. For PVC pipes 6 inches in diameter and greater, limit
particle size in the embedment zone to 1-1/2 inches or
less. For pipe diameters less than 6 inches, limit particle
size in the embedment zone to 3/4 inch or less.

20

TABLE 3.3
Description of Embedment Material Classifications
SOIL
TYPE

CLASS II SOILS**
CLASS III SOILS***

DESCRIPTION OF
MATERIAL CLASSIFICATION
Manufactured angular, granular material,
1/4 to 1 1/2 inches (6 to 40 mm) size,
including materials having regional
significance such as crushed stone or
rock, broken coral, crushed slag, cinder or
crushed shells.

CLASS I
SOILS*

SOIL

GW

Well graded gravels and gravel-sand

mixtures, little or no fines. 50% or more of
coarse fraction retained on No. 4 sieve. More
than 95% retained on No. 200 sieve. Clean.

GP

Poorly graded gravels and gravel-sand mixtures,

little or no fines. 50% or more of coarse fraction
retained on No.4 sieve. More than 95% retained
on No. 200 sieve. Clean.

SW

Well-graded sands and gravelly sands, little or no

fines. More than 50% of coarse fraction passes
No. 4 sieve. More than 95% retained on No. 200
sieve. Clean.

SP

Poorly graded sands and gravelly sands, little or

no fines. More than 50% of coarse fraction
passes No. 4 sieve. More than 95% retained on
No. 200 sieve. Clean.

GM

Silty gravels, gravel-sand-silt mixtures. 50% or

more of coarse fraction retained on No. 4 sieve.
More than 50% retained on No. 200 sieve.

GC

Clayey gravels, gravel-sand-clay mixtures. 50%

or more of coarse fraction retained on No. 4
sieve. More than 50% retained on No. 200 sieve.

SM

Silty sands, sand-silt mixtures. More than 50% of

coarse fraction passes No. 4 sieve. More than
50% retained on No. 200 sieve.

SC

Clayey sands, sand-clay mixtures. More than

50% of coarse fraction passes No. 4 sieve. More
than 50% retained on No. 200 sieve.

21

CLASS V SOILS

CLASS IV SOILS

SOIL
CLASS

SOIL
TYPE

DESCRIPTION OF
MATERIAL CLASSIFICATION

ML

Inorganic silts, very fine sands, rock

flour, silty or clayey fine sands. Liquid
limit 50% or less. 50% or more passes
No. 200 sieve.

CL

Inorganic clays of low to medium

plasticity, gravelly clays, sandy clays,
silty clays, lean clays. Liquid limit 50%
or less. 50% or more passes No. 200
sieve.

MH

Inorganic silts, micaceous or

diatomaceous fine sands or silts,
elastic silts. Liquid limit greater than
50%. 50% or more passes No. 200
sieve.

CH

Inorganic clays of high plasticity, fat

clays. Liquid limit greater than 50%.
50% or more passes No. 200 sieve.

CL

Organic silts and organic silty clays of

low plasticity. Liquid limit 50% or less.
50% or more passes No. 200 sieve.

CH

Organic clays of medium to high

plasticity. Liquid limit greater than
50%. 50% or more passes No. 200
sieve.

PT

Peat, muck, and other highly organic

soils.

Soils are as defined in ASTM D 2487, except for Class I material

which is defined in ASTM D 2321.
** In accordance with ASTM D 2487, less than 5% pass No. 200
sieve.
*** In accordance with ASTM D 2487, soils with 5% to 12% passing
No. 200 sieve fall in a borderline classification that is more
characteristic of Class II than of Class III.

22

Compaction
1. Saturation If saturation methods are used for compaction, the following recommendations should be followed:
a. Prevent flotation of the pipeline.
b. Do not use saturation during freezing temperatures.
c. Exercise care to prevent erosion at pipe sides and
bottom caused by water jetting.
d. Apply only enough water to provide complete saturation.
e. Allow each layer to dewater and solidify until it will
support the weight of workers.
2. Compaction equipment
a. Avoid contacting the pipe with compaction equipment.
b. Do not use compaction equipment directly over the
pipe until sufficient backfill has been placed to prevent damaging or disturbing the pipe.

23

24

Compact by power
tamper or rammer

Soil Consolidation Method

95 - 100

__
9 - 18

Mixed-Grain
Soils

III

95 - 100

95 - 100

% of Proctor (or Relative) Density Range

9 - 12

Sand & Gravel

Soils - Clean

Manufactured
Granular Materials

MATERIAL DESCRIPTION

Optimum moisture content

range limit % of dry weight

II

CLASS OF EMBEDMENT

Approximate Guide for Estimated Range of Degree

of Compaction versus Embedment Class and Method of Placement
as Percent of Standard Proctor Density

TABLE 3.4

90 - 100

6 - 30

Fine Grain
Soils

IV

25

60 - 80

Place by hand

60 - 80
60 - 80

60 - 80

__

80 - 95

80 - 95

60 - 80

60 - 80

__

__

80 - 95

Note: This table serves as an approximate guide defining average Proctor densities attained through
various methods of soil consolidation in different classes of soil. The table is intended to
provide guidance and is not recommended for design use. Actual design values should be
developed by the engineer for specific soils at specific moisture contents.

Dump

__

80 - 95

Consolidate by saturation

Tamp by hand

80 - 95

Densify by
by portable
portable vibrators
vibrators
Density

60 - 75

60 - 75

__

__

75 - 90

Bedding
1. Bedding is required to bring the trench bottom up to grade
and to provide longitudinal support under the pipe. Blocking must not be used to bring the pipe to grade.
2. Bell holes are necessary at each joint to maintain continuous support for the pipe.
3. Bedding thickness of 4 to 6 inches of compacted material is usually adequate.
4. Use of well-graded material is recommended where
trench native soil is fine-grained.

26

Haunching
1. Haunching provides side support to the pipe. This area
is the most important for controlling pipe deflection.
2. Haunching material should be worked under the sides
of the pipe to ensure side support.
3. Where coarse materials have been used for bedding,
the same materials should be used for haunching.
4. Haunching should extend to the springline of the pipe.

Initial Backfill
1. Initial backfill is placed to protect the pipe from impact
damage during final backfill.
2. Since initial backfill provides little additional structural
support, special compaction is not required.

Final Backfill
1. Material - The material used for final backfill need not be
as carefully selected as material in the embedment zone,
but should not contain boulders, frozen clumps or rubble
which could damage the pipe.
2. Compaction - Under open fields, natural compaction
should be adequate. Under improved surfaces, special
compaction (as specified by the design engineer) is required.

27

28

Chapter IV

Pipe Assembly

29

30

Gasketed Pipe
PWEagle gasketed pipe is an integrally belled product.
All gaskets are installed at the factory.
The joint is engineered to provide problem-free service for the life of the pipe, but proper procedures must be
followed to ensure its effectiveness.

1. Clean the gasket area. Remove sand, dirt, grease,

and debris. Do not remove gaskets from bells removal could cause improper reinstallation.
2. Check the gasket. Make sure the gasket is seated
uniformly in the groove by running your finger around
the inner edge of the gasket.
3. Clean the spigot. Use a rag to wipe the spigot clean.
4. Lower the pipe into the trench. Lower carefully to avoid
getting dirt into the bell or spigot.
5. Lubricate. Apply lubricant to the bevel of the spigot
end and approximately midway back to the stop line.
A thin layer of lubricant may be applied to the face of
the gasket, but be careful not to get lubricant behind
or under the gasket. WARNING: use only those lubricants supplied by PWEagle - the use of other lubricants may cause deterioration of pipe or gasket.

31

6. Keep lubricated areas clean. If dirt or sand adhere to

lubricated areas, clean and re-lubricate.
7. Assemble pipe. Insert the spigot end into the bell until it
contacts the gasket uniformly. Straight alignment is essential for ease of assembly. Apply steady pressure by
hand or by mechanical means (bar and block, comealong, hydraulic jack) until the spigot slips through the
gasket. Insert the pipe until the stop line is flush with the
bell end. For some job conditions and sizes of pipe, use
of heavy equipment (such as a backhoe bucket) may be
necessary for assembling the pipe. When this equipment
is used, extra care must be taken because the installer
loses the feel of the assembly. Conditions such as improper spigot alignment, rolled gaskets, or overinsertion
(overbelling) could go unnoticed during assembly because of the large force generated by the equipment.
The following precautions should be followed:
a. Position the spigot carefully in the bell to ensure straight
alignment both horizontally and vertically.
b. Exercise caution to prevent damage of the bell lip due
to rough contact by the equipment.
c. Be careful that the action of the equipment does not
move the pipe out of straight alignment.
d. Do not insert the spigot past the stop line. When the
equipment has pushed the spigot far enough to overcome the initial resistance of the gasket, use a bar and
block to finish pushing the pipe to the stop line. This
procedure not only prevents overinsertion but also identifies rolled (fishmouthed) gaskets at a time when they
can still be easily corrected.
32

8. If undue resistance to pipe insertion is encountered or if

the pipe cannot be inserted to the reference mark, disassemble the joint and check the position of the gasket.
a. If the gasket has been dislodged from the race, inspect the pipe and gasket for damage, replace damaged items, clean the components, and repeat the
assembly steps, assuring straight alignment.
b. If the gasket is still properly positioned, verify proper
positioning of the reference mark. Relocate the mark if
it is not correctly positioned. In general, fittings allow
less pipe insertion than do pipe bells. If the pipe still
cannot be inserted properly, call PWEagle for assistance.

33

9. If the pipe must be field-cut, mark the entire circumference of the pipe to ensure a square cut. The pipe can be
cut with a hacksaw, handsaw, or portable powersaw with
a steel blade or abrasive disc.

34

10. Bevel the cut end using a pipe beveling tool or a portable sander or abrasive disc. Round off any sharp edges
on the leading edge of the bevel with a pocket knife or
a file. Mark cut end with an insertion line similar to
uncut pipe.
Bevel requirements may vary with different joint types:
Joint
a. PVC pipe Bell
b. PVC push-on fitting
c. Other pipe bell/pushon fitting
d. Mechanical joint fitting

Bevel
Same as factory bevel
Same as factory bevel
Shorter bevel length
No bevel

35

Solvent-Cemented Pipe
1. Specifications
Solvent-cemented joints should be made in accordance
with ASTM D 2855 Standard Recommended Practice
for Making Solvent-Cemented Joints with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe and Fittings. The solvent cement should
conform to ASTM D 2564 Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Pipe
and Fittings, and the primer should conform to ASTM F
656 Specification for Primers for Use in Solvent Cement
Joints of PVC Plastic Pipe and Fittings. The handling of
solvent cements should be in accordance with ASTM F
402 Standard Recommended Practice for Safe Handling
of Solvent Cements Used for Joining Thermoplastic Pipe
and Fittings.
2. Basic principles of solvent-cemented joints:
a. The joining surfaces must be clean and dry.
b. The joining surfaces must be softened and made semifluid.
c. Sufficient cement must be applied to fill the gap between male and female ends.

36

[Link] assembly must be made while the surfaces are still

wet and fluid.
e. Joint strength develops as the cement dries. In the tight
part of the joint, the surfaces will fuse together. In the loose
part, the cement will bond with both surfaces.
f. Completed joints should not be disturbed until they have
cured sufficiently to withstand handling.
3. Selection of Solvent Cement
PVC solvent cements are available in a variety of viscosities
and wet film thicknesses to cover a wide range of pipe sizes,
and for interference-fit joints as well as non-interference joints.
The solvent cement manufacturers recommendations
should be followed for selection of proper cement.
4. Storage
PVC solvent cements should be stored in a cool place except when actually in use at the job site. Cements have a
limited shelf life when not stored in hermetically sealed containers. (Screw-top containers are not considered to be hermetically sealed.) Consult the cement manufacturer for specific recommendations on storage conditions and shelf life.
The cement is unsuitable for use if it exhibits an appreciable
change from the original viscosity, or if there is any sign of
gelation. Warning: Do not add solvent or thinners to the
cement.
5. Procedure
a. Cutting the Pipe - Cut pipe square with the axis, using a
fine-tooth saw with a miter box or guide. Wood-working
blades may be used. A rotary cutter may be used if the
cutting blades are specifically designed for cutting plastic
pipe in such a way as not to raise a ridge (flare) at the cut
end of the pipe. The use of a standard rotary metal pipe
cutter is not recommended.

37

b. Joint Preparation Remove all burrs and break the sharp

lead edges.
c. Test Dry Fit of the Joint The solvent cement joint is
designed so that there will generally be interference of
pipe wall with the fitting socket before the pipe is fullly

inserted. Insert the pipe into the fitting and check that the
interference occurs about 1/3 to 2/3 of the socket depth.
Sometimes, when the pipe and fittings are at their tolerance extremes, it may be possible to fully insert the dry
pipe into the fitting socket until it bottoms. If this occurs,
extra care must be taken to apply sufficient cement to fill
the gap between pipe and fitting in order to obtain a strong
leak-free joint.

38

d. Cleaning Surfaces to be joined must be cleaned and

free of dirt, moisture, oil, and other foreign material.
e. Handling Cement Keep cement can closed and
shaded when not actually in use. Discard the cement
when a noticeable change in viscosity occurs, when
the cement does not flow freely from the brush, or
when the cement appears lumpy and stringy. Keep
the brush immersed in cement between applications.
f. Application of Primer and Cement PVC solvent cement is fast drying and therefore should be applied as
quickly as possible, consistent with good workmanship.
It may be necessary for two workers to perform this operation for larger sizes of pipe.
First apply primer to the inside surface of the female
end. Use a scrubbing motion to ensure penetration. Repeat applications as necessary.
Apply primer to the outside surface of the spigot end
to the depth of insertion. Be sure that the entire surface is
softened.
Reapply primer to the inside surface of the female
end. Immediately apply cement to the pipe spigot end.
Apply a light coat of cement to the inside of the socket.
To prevent solvent damage to the pipe, do not apply an
excess of cement and do not apply cement to the pipe/
bell transition.
Apply a second coat of cement to the pipe spigot
end.

39

g. Assembly of Joint Immediately after applying the

last coat of cement to the pipe while both the inside
socket surface and the outside surface of the male end
of the pipe are SOFT and WET with solvent cement,
forcefully bottom the male end of the pipe in the socket.
Turn the pipe or fitting 1/4 turn during assembly (but not
after the pipe is bottomed) to distribute the cement
evenly. Assembly should be completed within 20 seconds after the last application of cement.

If there is any sign of drying of the cement surfaces, carefully

recoat the surfaces and assemble. Care should be taken not to
disturb or apply any force to previously assembled joints, which
can be adversely affected by rough handling.

40

After assembly, wipe excess cement from the pipe at the end
of the socket. Any gaps in the cement bead around the pipe
perimeter may indicate a defective assembly.
h. Set Time Handle the newly assembled joints carefully
until after the set period as follows:
Temperature Range
F
C
60 to 100
15 to 40
40 to 60
5 to 15
20 to 40
-5 to 5
0 - 20
-20 to -5

Minimum Set Time

30 minutes
1 hour
2 hours
4 hours

i. Weather Precautions
a. High humidity Quick application of primer and cement is essential to minimize condensation of moisture.
b. High temperatures Temperature of PVC surfaces
should not exceed 110 F (45 C) at the time of assembly.
c. Low temperatures At temperatures below freezing,
solvents penetrate the PVC surfaces more slowly than
in warmer weather. Testing on scrap pipe is recommended.
d. Store cements and primers between 40 F (5 C) and
70 F (21 C) when not in use.
e. Allow for adequate expansion and contraction with proper
shading methods or with expansion couplings.
6. Installation
After the set period, the pipe may be carefully laid in a prepared ditch. For temperature considerations see page 71,
Thermal Expansion and Contraction.
7. Cure Period
The cure period before testing depends on the specific cement, the size of the pipe, the ambient temperature, and the
joint tightness. Cure time may vary from minutes to days.
Consult cement manufacturer for information.
8. Safe Handling of Primers and Solvent Cements
a. Keep solvent cements and primers away from all sources
of ignition.
b. Provide adequate ventilation to reduce fire hazard and
to minimize breathing of vapors.
c. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
d. Refer to ASTM F 402 for more information.
41

42

Chapter V

Testing

43

44

General
This chapter gives PWEagles recommendations for project
testing, but the final authority on testing requirements is the
project engineer.
Water pipe installations are tested for pressure and leakage. PWEagle recommends simultaneous pressure and leakage tests. If the tests are to be done separately, the pressure
test should be done first.
It is good installation practice to test portions of a line as
they are completed. Sections that fail to pass testing should be
located, repaired, and retested until tests are passed.
Prior to the start of testing, the following steps are required:
[Link] pipe to be tested should be backfilled to prevent movement while under test pressures. Where possible, leave
joints uncovered during testing to allow for easier inspection.
2. At fittings, permanent thrust restraint is required sufficient
to withstand test pressures. If concrete thrust blocks are
used, the concrete must be allowed to cure before testing
begins.
[Link] ends are to be capped and braced to withstand forces
developed by test pressures.

45

Filling The Line

These precautions should be followed during filling:
1. The line should be filled slowly with flow velocity not to
exceed 2 fps (0.6 m/sec).
2. If possible the line should be filled at its lowest point.
3. During filling, all air should be expelled through permanent
air vents at all high points. If permanent air vents are not
required, the installer should install corporation stops at all
high points to expel air during intial filling and during pressure testing.

Pressure and Leakage

Testing (Combined)
1. Purpose Pressure test: to locate any defects in materials
or workmanship so that repairs may be made; leakage test:
to establish that the section of the line tested will not leak, or
that leakage is within acceptable limits.
2. Test Pressure and Duration A test pressure of 150% of
working pressure is recommended. In no case shall the test
pressure be allowed to exceed the design pressure for the
pipe, appurtenances, or thrust [Link] duration should
be 2 hours for a combined pressure and leakage test. For
additional test pressure information see the Technical
Bulletin Test Pressure for C900/C905.
3. Method The system should be raised to specified pressure by means of a pump connected to the pipe. The test
pressure is maintained by additional pumping (if necessary),
and all fittings, valves, and hydrants carefully examined for
leakage.

46

4. Allowable Leakage Leakage is defined as the quantity of

water that must be supplied to maintain pressure within 5
psig of the specified pressure after the pipe has been filled,
vented, and raised to test pressures. Allowable leakage may
be calculated from:
Design Basis L = ND P
7,400
Where L = allowable leakage (gal/hr)
N = number of joints in the tested line (pipe and fittings)
D = nominal diameter of pipe (in)
P = average test pressure (psi)

WARNING:
DO NOT USE AIR
PRESSURE FOR TESTING PVC
WATER PIPE. INJURY OR DEATH
MAY RESULT
DUE
TO THE
CATASTROPHIC NATURE OF
PIPE FAILURE SHOULD FAILURE
OCCUR. (RAPID EXPANSION OF
COMPRESSED AIR COULD EXPEL
SHARP FRAGMENTS OF PIPE
MATERIAL AT HIGH VELOCITY.)

47

48

Chapter VI

Service
Connections

49

50

General
Service connections range in size from 5/8-inch lines
for single-family homes to large lines for fire service or industrial use. Connections may be made by tapping directly
into the wall of the pipe, by tapping through service saddles,
or by using tapping sleeves.
Much of the information in this chapter is taken from the
Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Associations Tapping Guide for PVC
Pressure Pipe. Contact PWEagle for a copy of the guide.
Another source of information is a short video made by Uni
Bell titled Tapping PVC Pressure Pipe.
The illustrations used in this chapter depict specific tooling for the sake of clarity. It is not the intent of PWEagle to
promote specific types of equipment or the equipment of a
particular manufacturer.

51

52

Direct Tapping
General
Direct tapping involves the tapping of threads into the
pipe wall and the insertion of a corporation stop. Direct tapping is recommended for PVC water distribution pipe manufactured in accordance with AWWA C900 in nominal sizes
6 inch through 12 inch (150 mm through 305 mm) in pressure classes 150 (DR 18) and 200 (DR 14).
Direct tapping is not recommended for 4 inch pressure
class 150 or 200 pipe. In these cases, service clamps or
saddles should be used.

Equipment
1. Tapping Machine: Mechanical device used to install the
direct tapped connection into water mains. The tapping
machine may vary in design and operation depending
on the specific machine manufacturer. The machine must
operate with a cutting/tapping tool which is classified as
a core cutting tool (either with internal teeth or with double
slots) of the shell design which retains the coupon cut
while penetrating the wall of the water main. The tapping

53

machine shall provide the standard ratchet handle on

the boring bar. The tapping machine shall be of a design
where cutting and tapping is controlled and accomplished
with a feed nut or feed screw and yoke.

2. Cutting/Tapping Tool: These two combination drill and tap

tools illustrate the recommended features of the cutter. A
core drill is essential. It may be plain or slotted. Slotted core
drills allow an easier cut, but not a faster cut. DO NOT DRILL
A HOLE IN PVC PIPE WITH A TWIST DRILL OR AUGER
BIT.
The core drill must retain the plug of material removed from
the pipe wall (the coupon). A simple means of removing
the coupon from the core drill should be provided. The core
drill must be designed to accommodate walls as heavy as
DR 14 (pressure class 200, AWWA C900). Sufficient throat
depth is [Link] shank of the cutter must be adaptable
to the tapping machine being used.
The tap must cut AWWA C800 tapered threads. Iron pipe
threads are not recommended for the pipe wall. The depth
of travel of the cutter as the threads are cut must be carefully
adjusted (to ensure the proper insertion of the corporation
stopwith 2-3 threads showing after an insertion torque of
2735 ft. lbs. (36.647.5 newton meters)).
54

3. Corporation Stop: The corporation stops should be AWWA

tapered with thread complying with AWWA C800 in sizes
5/8, 3/4 and 1 inch. When sizes larger than 1 inch are required, tapping saddles or sleeves should be used.

Procedures
1. Planning the Direct Tap:
a. Only AWWA C900 Class 150 and 200 PVC pipes 6
(150 mm) through 12 (305 mm) can be direct tapped.
b. Taps up to 1 inch max. can be made directly (i.e. 5/8,
3/5 and 1).
c. Wet taps (pipe filled) or dry taps (pipe empty) are allowed. Wet taps are preferred.
d. The maximum allowable pressure in the pipe at the
time the wet tap is being completed is the rated pressure class of the pipe (i.e. DR 18, PC 150; DR 14, PC
200).
e. Corporation stops must have AWWA C800 thread. Iron
pipe threads are not recommended for the pipe wall.
f. Use a combination core drill and tap when tapping
direct. Do not use twist drills designed for tapping hard
wall pipes.
g. Recommended temperature limits:
Dry taps: 0 F (-18 C) to 100 F (38 C)
Wet taps: 32 F (0 C) to 90 F (32 C)
These temperatures refer to the temperature of the
pipe itself, which is closely related to air temperature
in most cases.
h. Placement
- Tap no closer than 24 inches (600 mm) from the
ends of the pipe.
- Stagger multiple taps and keep them at least 18
inches (450 mm) apart lengthwise.
- Avoid tapping into a discolored surface.

55

i. Tap a curved pipe only if the radius of the bend is 300

times the pipe outside diameter (or more). The offsets which result from a minimum bending radius of
300 OD are as given below.

AWWA C900, 20 foot lengths

Nominal
Pipe Size

10

12

A (inches)

14.0

11.0

8.5

7.0

j. Do a test tap in the shop before starting field tapping.

Do a couple of dry bench taps to establish the mark
on the boring bar corresponding to the correct tapping depth.
Firmly seat the cutter in the holder of the tapping machine. Secure it well. Any wobbling or looseness of
either the cutter or the boring bar will cause problems.
Make a final check of thread compatibility. AWWA
threads are required for both the tap and the corporation stop.
k. Observe the basic tapping precautions when tapping
pressurized pipes:
Have a second person close by.
Wear protective goggles.
Provide a quick exit from the ditch.
Cover the pipe area with a protective blanket (without
obstructing machine operation).
Follow local regulations.
56

l. When tapping pressurized pipes, the personnel on

the surface should have a clear understanding of the
valve operation necessary to isolate the tapping site,
if required to do so.
WRONG

RIGHT

Over-tightening only one

side may distort wall and
stress pipe. Never use
wrench extensions.

Both sides evenly tightened using only the

wrench supplied.

2. Mounting the Machine:

a. Make sure the outside diameter of the pipe (listed below) falls within the range of O.D.s for which the tapping machine saddle is designed.
Nominal Pipe Size
(inches)
6
8
10
12

Pipe O.D.
(inches)
6.90
9.05
11.10
13.20

b. The machine should sit on the drilling site firmly, but

not in a way that will set up wall stresses by distorting
the pipe. The actual placement of the tapping machine
on the pipe is to be done in accordance with the recommendations of the machine manufacturer.

57

c. Even when taps are being made on the horizontal

plane (the preferred location because it keeps the
gooseneck of the service pipe as far below the
frostline as possible), it is important that the tightening nuts be turned down evenly on each side.
Follow this procedure:
Adjust the nuts on the chain hooks so that they
are even with the tops of the threads.
Position the chain hooks on the machine and loop
the chain links into the hooks snugly.
Tighten nuts A and B alternately so that the same
number of threads are showing when the machine
is correctly and firmly mounted.
During the process, make sure the machine remains correctly seated in the saddle and saddle
gasket. Overtightening on only one side may distort the wall and set up wall stresses.
d. Wrench extenders should not be used.
3. Cutting the Hole and Tapping the Threads:
a. Since PVC is easy to cut, there is a temptation to
overfeed the cutter because it is comparatively easy
to turn the ratchet handle. The principle is to allow
the cutter to work as a cutter. Rotate the ratchet
handle one complete turn for every 1/8 turn of the
feed yoke (approx. 1-in. (25 mm) movement of feed
nut to each 1/4 turn of ratchet handle).
RIGHT

Feed lightly just enough

to keep the cutter engaged.

58

b. The feed rate should be less in cold weather. Judge the

correct feed rate by finger pull the effort should be
about the same used to open a desk drawer. This rule of
thumb applies in any temperature.
c. Upon wall penetration, the upward thrust on the boring
bar (assuming a pressurized pipe) will be about 1 [Link] per 1 psi of water pressure.
d. Use the feed yoke to engage the first few turns of the
tapping tool in the hole. After this, the tap is self-feeding
and the feed yoke can be disengaged from the boring
bar.
e. The Cast Iron mark on the boring bar is not a reliable
indicator of how deep to [Link] to the correct depth
is important and should be determined by performing
bench tests in advance and carefully noting the position
of the threaded feed sleeve (relative to the thrust collar or
other datum point) when the corporation stop is correctly
inserted.
f. As the tapping tool is reversed out of the hole, re-engage
the feed yoke or hold the boring bar until the tap clears
the threads. Release the bar slowly so as not to damage
the threads, or injure the machine operator.
g. Examine the coupon of PVC after it is knocked out of the
cutter head. A clean edge means good cutting action. A
raised crown means the cutter was fed through too fast.
WRONG

RIGHT
If the cutter is fed too fast, a
plug of material is pushed out
of the I.D. of the pipe where
the tool emerges. The condition of the coupon provides
a check of correct tapping procedures.
At the first sign of a crown on
the coupons, the tapping procedure or the condition of the
tools should be re-examined
and corrected before more
taps are attempted.

59

4. Inserting the Stop:

a. Attach the E-Z screw plug to the end of the boring bar.
Screw the corporation stop into the E-Z release plug.
The exposed end of the main stop will be the inlet end
with tapered (AWWA) threads. Check to BE SURE
THE STOP IS CLOSED.
b. Apply two spiral wraps of Teflon tape clockwise to
the AWWA threads. Other thread lubricants are not
recommended. Do not use liquid sealants (even though
they may contain Teflon).
c. Replace the boring bar assembly in the machine and
insert the stop into the main. Use care to start the first
few threads in the hole so that they are not forced or
punched. Using the feed yoke for this operation requires only light finger pressure on the feed nut while
the ratchet handle is rotated.
d. Disengage the feed yoke and remove the ratchet
handle as soon as the stop has firmly engaged the
threads in the pipe wall. Complete the insertion using
a torque wrench.
e. Tighten the stop to 27 foot-pounds (36.6 newton
meters).
f. Snap the wrench counterclockwise to release the E-Z
plug from the stop. Remove the tapping machine in
the usual way. If there is leaking past the threads,
tighten the stop to 35 foot-lbs (47.5 newton meters).
At correct insertion, one to three threads should be
visible.
g. If leaking past the threads persists, remove pressure
from the line, unscrew the main stop to clear away
cuttings and replace the stop to 27 foot lbs. (36.6 newton meters), making sure the Teflon thread lubricant

60

has been restored.

5. Direct Dry Tapping: When direct tapping AWWA C900
DR 18 Pressure Class 150 or DR 14 Pressure Class
200 PVC pipe 6 - 12 that is empty, or not in service, or
not yet under pressure, the procedure given for making
wet taps under pressure should be followed with a few
exceptions:
a. Remove the machine from the pipe after the hole has
been drilled and tapped. Carefully remove the cuttings
from the hole before inserting the main stop.
b. Prepare the stop as described in Inserting the Stop
and insert it by hand. Caution: Take special care not to
crossthread the fine, Teflon wrapped AWWA threads.
c. Tighten the stop to the point where 13 threads are
showing at 27 foot-lbs. (36.6 newton meters).

61

Saddle Tapping
General
The use of saddles to make taps in PVC pressure pipe
is recommended for any size or class of pipe. Service connections may be made using a service clamp or saddle.
Maximum outlet size recommended with service clamps or
saddles is 2 inches (50 mm). When making this type of connection, equipment is used which attaches to the corpora-

tion stop permitting a cutting tool to be fed through the corporation stop to cut a hole in the pipe. No tapping of the pipe
wall is required since the corporation stop is threaded into
the service clamp.

Equipment
1. Service Clamps or Saddles
a. Service clamps or saddles used for attaching service connections to PVC water pipe should:
Provide full support around the circumference of
the pipe.
Provide a bearing area of sufficient width along
the axis of the pipe, 2 inch (50 mm) minimum,
insuring that the pipe will not be distorted when
the saddle is tightened.
62

b. Service clamps should not:

Have lugs that will dig into the pipe when the saddle
is tightened.
Have a U-bolt type of strap that does not provide
sufficient bearing area.
Have a clamping arrangement that is not fully contoured to the outside diameter of the pipe.
2. Tapping Machine: A number of tapping machines are
available which will cut through a corporation stop. The
tapping machine may vary in design and operation depending on the specific machine manufacturer. The machine must operate with a cutting tool which is classified
as a core cutting tool (either with internal teeth or with
double slots) of the shell design which retains the coupon cut while penetrating the wall of the water main. The
tapping machine shall provide the standard ratchet handle
on the boring bar. The tapping machine shall be of a
design where cutting is controlled and accomplished with
a feed nut or feed screw and yoke.
3. Cutting Tool: It is important that the cutting tool be a shell
type (hole) cutter which will retain the coupon and be
designed to accommodate walls as heavy as DR 14
(pressure class 200, AWWA C900). Many shell cutters
are designed only for thin walled PVC. Consequently,
they do not have sufficient throat depth to handle the
heavier-walled pipe. DO NOT DRILL A HOLE IN PVC
PIPE WITH A TWIST DRILL OR AUGER BIT. The shank
of the cutter must be adaptable to the cutting machine
being used.
4. Corporation Stop: Because the corporation stop is inserted into the service clamp or saddle, it must have
threads which match that of the clamp or saddle, which
may be either IPS OD or CIPS OD.
The maximum size of corporation stop which may
be used with a service clamp or saddle is 2 inches. If a
tap larger than 2 inches is required, a tapping sleeve
and valve are required.

63

Procedure
1. Evenly tighten the saddle to the pipe. Do not overtighten
the bolts. (If the bolts are overtightened, stresses will
be introduced into the wall of the pipe.) The torque required is generally approximately 20 ft. lb.
2. Screw the inlet side of the main stop into the saddle
threads. Retain the stop hardware as supplied.
3. Open the main stop.
4. Using the appropriate adapter and gasket, attach the
drilling machine to the main stop outlet threads. Use a
machine with an operator-controlled feed rate. Be sure
to follow the machine manufacturers instructions.
5. The use of a core drill is essential. The key to tapping
PVC pipe lies in advancing the feed nut slowly enough
to allow the core drill to cut the pipe rather than forcing
it through the pipe wall.
6. Lower the boring bar to the main and rotate the cutter
while exerting finger-pull on the feed handle. Rotate the
ratchet handle one complete turn for every 1/8 turn of
the feed yoke.
7. After the cutter has penetrated the pipe wall, withdraw
the cutter, close the main stop, and remove the drilling
machine.
8. After the machine has been removed, tighten the saddle
bolts to ensure that the saddle gasket will seal.

64

Tapping Sleeve
and Valve
General
Tapping sleeves and valves are used when service connections larger than 2 inches (50 mm) must be made in PVC
water mains. Tapping sleeves may be used for making large
taps under pressure. The use of tapping sleeves and valves to
make taps in PVC pressure pipe is recommended for any size
or class of pipe. When making this type of connection, equipment is used which attaches to the valve permitting a cutting
tool to be fed through the valve to cut a hole in the pipe. No
tapping of the pipe wall is required since the valve is attached to
the tapping sleeve.

Equipment
1. Tapping Sleeves and Valves:
a. When tapping sleeves are ordered from the manufacturer, the outside diameter of the pipe being tapped,
the size of the outlet desired and the working pressure
(or test pressure, if higher) should be specified to insure that the sleeve furnished will be satisfactory. Leadjoint sleeves should not be used.
b. Tapping sleeves should:
Provide full support around the circumference of the
pipe.
c. Tapping sleeves should not:
Distort the pipe when tightened.
Have lugs that will dig into the pipe when the sleeve
is tightened.
Have a clamping arrangement which is not fully contoured to the outside diameter of the pipe.
d. When ordering tapping valves, dimensions and attaching mechanisms consistent with the tapping sleeves
should be specified.
2. Cutting Tool: A toothed core cutter which retains the coupon, similar to those used for other materials, should be
65

used. The cutter should have sufficient throat depth to

cut heavy walled PVC such as DR 14. DO NOT DRILL
A HOLE IN PVC PIPE WITH A TWIST DRILL OR AUGER BIT.
3. Tapping Machine: A number of tapping machines are
available which will cut through a tapping valve. The
tapping machine may vary in design and operation depending on the specific machine manufacturer. The tapping machine must be attached to the valve and must
be ordered according to the valve specified. Tapping
equipment can be purchased or rented from sleeve
manufacturers who also furnish instructions and/or instructors trained in making such taps. (Contractors who
specialize in this type of work are also available in some
areas.)

Procedures
1. The tapping sleeve should be assembled on the pipe in
accordance with the manufacturers directions, insuring that no pipe distortion occurs. The tapping valve is
then connected to the sleeve.
2. Tapping sleeves should be well supported independently
from the pipe during the tapping. Support used should
be left in place after tapping. Thrust blocks should be
used as with any other fitting or appurtenance.
3. Attach the drilling machine and adaptor to the valve
outlet flange. Position the necessary support blocks.
Open the tapping valve, advance the cutter and cut the
hole into the main through the sleeve. Retract the cutter
and then close the tapping valve. Remove the drilling
machine and attach the new line or lateral.

66

Chapter VII

Special
Considerations

67

68

Longitudinal
Bending
1. The ability of PVC pipes to bend is a signficant advantage over rigid pipes.
2. Longitudinal bending may be done deliberately during
construction or may be the result of changes that occur
in the pipe-soil system after construction.

3. Gasketed Pipe Joint Deflection: Gasketed PVC pipe joints

allow a small amount of deflection. The maximum allowable deflection in gasketed PWEagle products is one
degree.

69

4. Pipe Body Longitudinal Bending: The bending radii of

PVC water pipes must be limited to the following:
Pressure Rated Pipes (ASTM D 1785, ASTM D 2241,
AWWA C900, AWWA C905, all PIP pipes): 200 times
OD or greater.
OD = Pipe outside diameter in inches divide result by
12 to get bending radius in feet.
5. Bending should be done manually, with a bar if possible.
If mechanical equipment is used, extreme care should
be taken to prevent damage to the pipe and the adjacent
joint. Some large-diameter pipe may be too stiff to be
curved.
6. Fittings should be used for radii tighter than those recommended above.
7. More information can be found in the PWEagle Technical
Bulletin Longitudinal Bending of PVC Pipe. Contact
PWEagle for a copy.

70

Thermal Expansion
and Contraction
1. All materials expand and contract with changes in temperature. Linear expansion of pipe in the longitudinal
direction is dependent on:
a. Variation in temperature.
b. Coefficient of thermal expansion of the material. It is
important to note that the rate of thermal expansion
and contraction is not dependent on pipe size or wall
thickness.
2. The coefficient of thermal expansion for PVC is 3.0 x
10-5 in/in/ F ( 5.4 x 10-5 mm/mm/ C).
3. Allowance for the movement:
a. 0.36 inch of length variation for every 100 feet of
pipe for each 10 F change in temperature.
b. 5.4 mm of length variation for every 10 meters of
pipe for each 10 C change in temperature.

71

4. Gasketed Joints When gasketed joints are used, thermal movement is not a significant design factor as long
as:
a. Pipe temperatures are kept within accepted limits for
PVC pipe.
b. Joints are properly installed with the pipe spigots inserted into the bells to the insertion line.
WARNING: IF PIPE SPIGOTS ARE INSERTED
PAST THE INSERTION LINE, THERMAL EXPANSION MAY CAUSE SIGNIFICANT
STRESSES IN THE PIPE BELLS.
5. Solvent Cemented Joints When solvent cemented
joints are used, thermal movement cannot be accommodated in the pipe joints. The following installation procedures are recommended (after the joints are properly cured):
a. Small diameter pipes (1/2 inch to 2 1/2 inch) When
installation temperature is substantially lower than operating temperature, the pipe should be installed with
straight alignment and brought up to operating temperature. This procedure will permit expansion of the
pipe to be accommodated by snaking action. When
installation temperature is substantially above operating temperature, the pipe should be installed by
snaking in the trench.
b. Large Diameter Pipes (3 inch and larger) Pipe
should be installed in straight alignment. Before backfill to the extent that restricts longitudinal movement,
the product temperature should be adjusted to within
15 F (8 C) of operating temperature.
6. Where the operating temperature cannot be closely controlled, the stresses resulting from extreme temperature variations must be considered in the design. The
design engineer should be consulted for guidance.

72

Thermal Effects on PVC

Properties
The physical properties of PVC vary with changes in
temperature. The rated values for PVC properties are established at 73.4 F (23 C).
1. As temperature decreases below 73.4 F, pipe stiffness
and tensile strength increase while impact strength
decreases. This decrease in impact strength requires
that more care be taken during installation in cold temperatures.
2. Conversely, as temperatures increase, pipe stiffness
and tensile strength decrease while impact strength
increases. Decreases in pipe stiffness require that more
care be taken during installation in hot weather.

73

Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation

Like most plastics, PVC can experience degradation
when exposed to UV radiation. This degradation occurs
only on surfaces exposed to the sun and penetrates only
about .001 inch into the pipe wall. The affected areas often turn a yellow color. When the pipe is no longer exposed to the sun, further degradation does not occur.
Ultraviolet exposure does not significantly affect pipe
stiffness or tensile modulus properties. However, there is
a measurable reduction in values for impact strength.
PVC pipes high initial impact strength means that reductions in impact properties due to UV radiation are of
little concern. If good construction practice is followed in
unloading, handling, and installation, pipe breakage due
to impact loads will not be a problem.
See the PWEagle Technical Bulletin The Effects of
Sunlight Exposure on PVC Pipe and Conduit for more
details.

74

Appurtenances
1. Valve and fitting weights should not be carried by PVC
pipe. Most valves and fittings may be supported on properly compacted bedding, but in some soil conditions,
concrete cradles may be required for heavy valves.
2. AWWA C900 and C905 pressure pipe is produced in
cast-iron pipe size (CIPS). This means that ductile iron
valves and fittings are compatible with CIPS PVC pipe.
3. Similarly, iron pipe size (IPS) PVC pipe is compatible
with appurtenances used for steel pipe.

4. Butterfly valves may not function properly on some heavywalled PVC pipe because wall thickness may interfere
with disc movement. Special adapters may be required.
5. Most fittings do not allow as much spigot insertion depth
as do pipe bells and couplings. When assembling a PVC
pressure pipe to an iron fitting (push-on or mechanical
joint), remove all but 1/4 inch of the factory made bevel
from the spigot end of the pipe. Bottom the pipe in the
bell of the iron fitting.

75

Thrust Restraint
The large thrust forces exerted in water distribution
systems require thrust restraint designed to resist test pressures as well as peak operating pressures.
1. When concrete thrust blocks are used, the size and type
of blocking must be based on the maximum thrust force
expected and the load-bearing capacity of the soil.
THRUST BLOCKS

Direction change, elbow

Through line connection, tee

2. When mechanical thrust restraint devices are used, they

must be a type that is specifically designed for use with
PVC pipe. The devices should conform to Uni-Bells
UNI-B-13 Recommended Performance Specification
for Joint Restraint Devices for Use with PVC Pipe.
THRUST RESTRAINERS

Through line connection,

cross used as tee

Direction change, elbow

76

Application Precautions
1. Entrapped air During filling of pipe with water for testing or operation, air should be allowed to escape through
valves or corporation stops at the high points of the line.
Removal of entrapped air reduces surge pressures (water hammer) in the line.
2. Pressurized air PWEagles pressure water pipe is not
intended for air pressure testing or service.
WARNING: Do not use PWEagle products for pressurized air applications, as injury may result.
3. Safety All applicable federal, state, and local safety
regulations should be followed.

77

78

Index
Appurtenances 75
Backfill, final 27
Backfill, initial 27
Backhoe 32
Bedding 20, 21, 26
Bell holes 26
Bending 69
Bevel 35, 75
Compaction 17, 18, 23, 24
Cutting 34, 37, 38
Cutting Tool 34, 37
Dewatering 15
Direct Tapping 53-61
Embedment 20-22, 24
Entrapped air 77
Fittings 38, 75
Foundation 15, 20
Gasket 9, 31-33
Handling 8-10
Haunching 15, 27
Impact 8, 10, 27
Impact Strength 73, 74
Leakage, allowable 47
Leakage testing 45, 46
Lubricant 31

79

Minimum Cover 19
Moveable trench support 18, 19
Pipe assembly 2941
Pressurized air 44, 77
Primer 36, 39, 41
Prism load 15
Receiving 7
Reference mark 32, 33, 35
Saddles 62-64
Saturation 23
Service connections 51-66
Soil Classifications 21-22
Solvent cement 36, 37, 39
Specifications 3, 36
Stop line 32, 33, 35
Storage 9, 37
Stringing 11
Subditch 17
Supported trench 18, 19
Tapping sleeves 65, 66
Testing 4547
Thermal effects on PVC properties 73
Thermal expansion 71
Thrust restraint 45, 76
Trench width 1518
Ultraviolet radiation 74
Unloading 8
Valves 65, 66, 75
Warranty 4

80