There are several ways to connect PVC underground drainage pipes. If you choose pipes with are a single socket design, they will simply push together to form a long straight pipeline. However, if you need the drainage system to turn corners, you might need to choose some underground fittings and bends to achieve this.
Underground drainage pipes come in two standard lengths, 3 meters and 6 meters. The most commonly used diameter is 110mm, although several larger pipe sizes include 160mm, 200mm, 250mm, and 315mm. Regardless of which size you are using, you can choose between single socket pipes and plain ended.
Plain-ended pipe
Single-socket pipe
Single socket pipes vs plain ended pipes
Single socket pipes allow you to push the ends together, and they will join straight onto one another, whereas plain ended pipes require you to use an underground fitting or bend at the end of each length. For straight connections, you can use a coupler (also known as a collar).
Drainage bends
When using plain-ended drainage pipes you have the flexibility to make the drainage pipe run turn corners. You can choose from a range of bends from 15 degrees up to 90 degrees depending on your requirements.
Drainage Junctions
If you need to combine two drainage pipelines into one, you can use a junction to achieve this. There are two types available; t-junctions and y-junctions.
Tools needed to join pipes together.
You will need several tools to connect PVC drainage systems properly, here is a list of what you might need:
Handsaw or Hacksaw
File or chamfer drill attachemnt.
Tape measure
Rubber Mallet
Safety gloves
Safety goggles
Protective clothing
PVC pipe cutter
Spirit level
Pipe lubricant
All of the accessories pictures above are available from Drainfast.
Firstly you are likely to need to cut the pipes to length. We recommend using a handsaw for this, but make sure you are working at a safe height and wearing the correct PPE. Next, you will need to chamfer the end of the pipe you have cut. Use a file for this or better still try a drill chamfer tool to speed this up and get a better finish. It is essential to chamfer the ends of the pipe to ensure the seal is not damaged when joining them together. Finally, you should add some lubricant on the inside of each joint or fitting and on the pipe end before pushing them onto one another.
If simply pushing the pipes together by hand is proving difficult, a rubber mallet can come in handy. Place a piece of wood over the far end of the pipe and tap it gently to encourage the pipe to enter the fitting.
How SiteStak can make drainage installation safer and easier
The ultimate tool when you are installing a lot of underground drainage systems is a SiteStak workstation with a clampand a saw guide. The SiteStak system acts as a central storage point for all of the drainage materials and tools that you will need for the job. It also has an integral clamp for holding pipes securely and a saw guide to make sure that you're cutting square.
There are now over 1000 sites using SiteStak and it's easy to see why. A SiteStak workstation is a perfect addition to any drainage installation kit. It's lightweight, easy to transport and can accommodate all of your equipment for a job in one place.
Get in touch today for more details on the SiteStak System for your site!