PIPE BEDDING

Preparation and proper compaction of the pipe bedding is very

important. The pipe's ability to support the overlying earth loads is
influenced by the degree of support that the pipe has under it and at its
sides. For FLEXIBLE pipes, such as PVC, the pipe chiefly relies on the support
given by the bedding. If PVC pipe is improperly supported, the pipe will
deflect vertically. Improperly supported PVC pipe may be either damaged or
deformed possibly causing leakage at the pipe joints. The effect of bedding
is illustrated in the figure above.

As shown in this illustration, the pipe is capable of resisting the earth

loads and deflects only slightly when properly bedded. If improperly bedded,
the pipe is unable to support the overlying load and deflects vertically until
the downward earth loads are equalled. For rigid pipe such as concrete pipe
and AC pipe, the pipe will break if unsupported since the pipe cannot flex in
response to loads.

Depending on the application and pipe strength, various degrees or

classes of bedding with a load factor of 2.2 can provide twice as much load
carrying ability as Class D bedding with its load factor of 1.1 (i.e. 2.2 = 1.1 X
2). The figure below illustrates classes of bedding.
1. Class D - Load Factor 1.1

Using this bedding, little care is exercised to shape the pipe foundation
and to compact bedding material around the pipe. This bedding method is
NOT RECOMMENDED as a bedding alternative.

2. Class C - Load Factor 1.5

With 'C' bedding, ordinary care is used to shape the bottom of the
trench directly under the pipe. The bottom is shaped to bed the pipe for a
height equal to 1/2 of the pipe diameter. Joint or coupling holes are
excavated at each pipe joint to permit assembly and to safeguard against
the pipe being supported at the joint. The trench is backfilled to a height
of 15 cm (6 inches) over the top of the pipe with selected earth
containing no rocks or frozen material. The bedding material is placed by
hand and tamped to ensure reasonable compactness around and under
the pipe.
 3. Class B - Load Factor 1.9

Using this method, the pipe is placed on a granular material bed

that is carefully shaped to fit the bottom of the pipe. The width is
equal to at least 60% of the pipe diameter. Backfill is placed by hand
in 15-cm (6-inch) layers and compacted for a depth of at least 30 cm
(12 inches) over the top of the pipe. The bedding is tamped thoroughly
to ensure good compaction around and under the pipe. Class 'B'
bedding is the most commonly used bedding method.

4. Class A - Load Factor 2.2 - 3.4

In this method, the bottom of the pipe is bedded in plain or

reinforced concrete of suitable thickness. The concrete extends
upwards on each side of the pipe for a height equal to but not less
than 1/4 of the pipe diameter measured from the bottom of the pipe.
Alternatively, a concrete arch over the pipe can be used.

TYPICALSECTION VIEW OF MANHOLE (PHILIPPINE STANDARD)

REFERENCE: http://www.watertraining.ca/courses/wt/328/328c2

https://www.slideshare.net/jemganacia/interceptors-and-manholes