Flexible Pipes
Pipe Behaviour: Flexible vs Rigid
Pipe behavior can generally be classified as flexible or rigid, depending on how it performs when installed.
Flexible Pipe
Flexible pipe must move, or deflect, in order to transfer the overburden load to the surrounding soil. Structured and single-wall corrugated pipes are examples of flexible pipe.
Flexible pipes are designed to transfer loads through controlled deflection. This results primarily in deformation without structural damage, providing a number of performance advantages.
Rigid Pipe
Rigid pipe is commonly defined as a pipe that does not deflect more than 2% without structural distress. As a result, rigid pipe must be designed to carry the majority of the load directly.
Reinforced and non-reinforced concrete pipes are examples of rigid pipe.
Importance of Proper Backfill
Both flexible and rigid pipes depend on proper backfill.
In flexible pipe systems, deflection allows loads to be transferred to and carried by the backfill. In rigid pipe systems, most of the load is transmitted through the pipe wall into the bedding.
In both cases, proper backfill installation is critical to ensure effective load transfer and long-term performance.
Image below is correct and clear explanation.
