Defects in sewer pipe joints and water tests.

Defects at sewer joints can contribute significantly to the reduction of the overall performance of the sewerage network. Full-scale laboratory experiments were carried out on standard joint assemblies for small diameter clay pipes. The results showed that the joint assembly failed the UK water test performance specification (BS EN 1610: 1998 and EN 295: 1-1991) for a range of angular displacements and bedding arrangements. The standards do not describe in engineering terms the provisions that should be made to restrain the pipeline, or section of pipelines, when completing the water test. Movement of the complete pipe/joint occurred as a result of static hydraulic pressures and the performance of the pipeline can be further compromised when subjected to angular deflections. In the long term, effects could contribute to the development of latent defects within newly laid joint assemblies and adversely influence the performance of the sewer under operational conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]