Concrete and reinforced concrete pipes (known in Turkish as künk) are circular-section underground pipe elements produced in the factory under controlled conditions for the safe underground conveyance of sewage, storm water and industrial wastewater. In this system, which requires no in-situ casting, the moulds, concrete quality, dimensional accuracy and curing process are managed in the factory environment.
The choice between concrete and reinforced concrete for a pipe is made on engineering principles according to the diameter range, fill height, traffic load and ground conditions. While unreinforced concrete may be sufficient for small diameters, a reinforced concrete body is preferred for high loads or large cross-sections. With integrated-gasket joints, HDPE lining and, on request, epoxy coating options, the product group can be adapted to different performance requirements.
Typical Areas of Use
- Sewer and wastewater lines
- Storm water and surface water drainage lines
- Residential and industrial infrastructure projects
Key Advantages
- Controlled production: Moulds, concrete and curing conditions are controlled in the factory environment, ensuring consistency of dimensions and quality.
- Rapid installation: Pipes are dispatched to site ready for installation, with no in-situ fabrication or curing time on the construction site, which shortens the installation period.
- Cross-section suited to project conditions: The concrete or reinforced concrete solution is designed taking into account fill height, ground conditions and load effects.
- Structural safety and long service life: The circular cross-section geometry contributes to the balanced carrying of the loads acting around the pipe; with correct design and installation, long-term use is intended.
- Watertightness performance: Watertightness at the joints is achieved through connection details that meet the project requirements. Where an integrated-gasket joint is chosen, watertightness is achieved by keeping the joint surfaces clean and by installing the product in accordance with its installation instructions.
- Optional solutions to suit the application: The standard range is not the only option. If the size required by the project is not in the standard list, a mould is prepared and the pipe is produced; additional treatments that protect the internal surface and support service performance, as well as special concrete mixes, can be considered according to project conditions.
Integrated-Gasket System
In integrated-gasket pipes, the gasket is placed in the pipe's joint detail during production. When compatible pipe ends are joined, the gasket acts as a sealing element that limits the passage of water through the joint. It thus helps to prevent water in the line from leaking out and groundwater from entering the line. Joint performance is achieved through installation in accordance with the product's installation instructions.
Main Advantages
- Watertightness: Helps to limit the passage of water at pipe joints.
- Ease of installation: Fitting the gasket during production reduces separate gasket fitting work on site.
- Joint compatibility: Helps the joint to function within the product's permitted movement limits.
HDPE Lining
HDPE-lined precast pipes are composite pipes consisting of a concrete or reinforced concrete load-bearing body on the outside and an HDPE (high-density polyethylene) liner on the inside. While the load-bearing body carries the underground loads, the HDPE inner liner protects the surface in contact with the fluid against chemical and mechanical effects. Its low roughness contributes to flow performance.
Technical Advantages
- Liner selection to suit the specified chemical and abrasion conditions
- More efficient flow performance through low internal roughness
- A structure consisting of a concrete load-bearing body and an HDPE liner that protects the surface
- Protection that supports service life with appropriate selection and installation
Key Areas of Use
- Industrial wastewater lines
- Main collectors and infrastructure lines expected to have a long service life
- Routes conveying fluids that contain abrasive solid particles
- Infrastructure lines in organised industrial zones and around industrial facilities
The pipe body is adapted to project conditions by varying the joint detail, the internal surface lining, and the choice of material and cross-section.
History of Concrete and Reinforced Concrete Pipes
Künk is the name traditionally used in Turkish for water conveyance elements made of fired clay; in everyday language it may also be used for concrete pipes.
With advances in production and concrete technologies, concrete and reinforced concrete pipes have become one of the principal solutions used in infrastructure. Other pipe materials also continue to be considered according to the conditions of use.
In present-day precast pipe production, moulds, concrete mix, dimensional accuracy and curing conditions are controlled in the factory environment. Materials and joints are selected according to the hydraulic and structural requirements of the project.