BE-02 Open Cut Method: Embedment Zone

Minimum Trench Width Calculation in the US for Various Pipe Materials

How to Calculate the Minimum Trench Width for Concrete Pipes?

The following formula can be used as a general guide to compute the minimum trench width for circular concrete pipe installation using the open cut method.

Table: 

Minimum trench width calculation for circular concrete pipe installation using the open cut method as per ASTM C1479 & AASHTO Section 27
Minimum Trench Width Calculation Formula Based on Pipe Outside Diameter (OD)
Wmin = OD + 2 x (OD / 6)*
*OD = Outside diameter of concrete pipe in inches (or mm)

 

Sample calculation:

O.D. = 24” ID + 3 in wall thickness x 2 = 30 in

Total trench width = O.D. + (O.D./6 x2) = 30 in+ (30/6 x 2) = 30 in + 10 in = 40 in min

 

 

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