PRESTRESSED CONCRETE PIPE NEEDS CLOSE LOOK

It is noted that despite widely publicized failures, prestresed concrete cylinder pipe should be considered a viable prdouct, but caution is urged about misconceptions about the pipe. PCCP are susceptible to certain conditons that can easily be overlooked. It is pointed out that data and experience extrapolated from the performance of prestressed and reinforced concrete in buildings and bridges may not apply to PCCP. It is critically important to define safety in terms of serviceability rather than just strength. Factors that accelerate deterioration are mortar coating defects and damage, corrosive soils, and groundwaters, and prestressing wire defects. Faulty cathodic protection systems can also cause hydrogen embrittlement. It is recommended that specifications for PCCP be developed, or broadened to provide better controls and limits during design and manufacturing. Owners should periodically examine even pipe that seems to be performing well for problem areas that are identified as leading to premature failure.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/08919526
• Corporate Authors:

  McGraw-Hill, Incorporated

  330 West 42nd Street
  New York, NY  United States  10036
• Publication Date: 1990-12-24

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 16, 23
• Serial:
  • ENR
  • Volume: 225
  • Issue Number: 25
  • Publisher: McGraw-Hill, Incorporated
  • ISSN: 0891-9526

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Cathodic protection; Coatings; Concrete pipe; Failure; Groundwater; Performance; Prestressed concrete; Serviceability; Specifications
• Old TRIS Terms: Prestressed concrete cylinder pipes
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Materials; I32: Concrete;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00602865
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 31 1990 12:00AM