Reinforced concrete wells: types, purpose, design

Wells made of reinforced concrete are vital parts of many building projects because they are strong and long-lasting for a variety of uses. These wells are essential in both residential and commercial settings because they are used for everything from sewage management to water supply systems.

Wells made of reinforced concrete come in a variety of forms, each intended to fulfill a particular purpose. Septic, drainage, and water wells are the most popular varieties. Every type has a distinct function and is built with features specific to meeting the needs of the intended use.

Selecting the appropriate type of reinforced concrete well for your project is made easier when you are aware of its purpose and design. The well’s performance and longevity are guaranteed by the design considerations, regardless of the need for a well for dependable waste management or an efficient water supply.

Types and characteristics of reinforced concrete products

Reinforced concrete water wells are classified based on their intended use: drinking water reservoirs are used to set up an independent water supply for a country home, while inspection wells are used for pipeline maintenance and repairs.

Based on their layout, they can be:

1. Round reinforced concrete wells (monolithic or prefabricated), up to 2.5 m in diameter.

1. Square or rectangular cross-section structures manufactured in the same way as p.1. Used for the construction of structures with a diameter of more than 2.5 m.

Main characteristics

Prefabricated components are primarily used for the installation of reinforced concrete wells because they drastically cut down on the amount of labor required to assemble water pipes and the duration of facility construction (see photo).

The diameter of the pipes, the size of the fire hydrants and valves, and the dimensions of the formed parts must all be known in order to calculate the structure’s dimensions. The SNiP for reinforced concrete wells provisions, which outline the primary recommendations for material selection, prerequisites for part installation, and their subsequent operation, must also be followed when working on the installation of external water supply networks.

The components of reinforced concrete water wells are as follows:

Heavy concrete makes up the components of inspection chambers, which must meet the following operational specifications:

• strength class B20–B25;
• frost resistance F75–F100;
• water resistance W4 and higher.

Benefits of constructions made of reinforced concrete:

• high strength, allowing them to effectively withstand transverse soil pressures;
• durability. The period of operation is not limited even in conditions of high humidity;
• do not require any additional efforts during operation, and repair of a reinforced concrete well can be done by simply replacing a worn-out element.

Technical characteristics

Regulations provide guidelines and mandated suggestions for the construction and maintenance of reinforced concrete structures.

1. The height of the working part of structures with a diameter of up to 2.5 should not exceed 1.5 m.
2. Reinforced concrete water supply wells with a diameter of more than 2.5 m are built with vertical walls 1.8 m high and covered with reinforced concrete slabs. A neck is installed on top and covered with a hatch Ø 70 cm.
3. For descending into the inspection well, cast iron or corrugated steel brackets are provided on the walls of the chamber. Use of portable metal ladders is allowed.

1. Around the operated hatches located in areas without road surfaces, concrete blind areas with a slope from the neck and a width of 0.5 m are provided. On the roadway of highways, the covers must be flush with its surface.

1. When laying complex water supply units of large diameter, in places where the valves are located, a switching chamber is equipped, which is controlled from the surface of the earth using special devices through a small hatch equipped in the neck of the tank.
2. A concrete pipe for the well is provided to discharge leaked moisture from the chamber, with the help of which the accumulated water is discharged into the drainage system.

1. For small amounts of liquid, accumulation pits are provided, from which, using pumps, water is removed to the surface.
2. Under the action of water pressure, in high-pressure systems, tensile stresses may occur. To prevent damage or displacement of pipelines in wells, brick or concrete stops are provided.
3. With high groundwater levels, the outer walls are treated with bitumen or waterproofing cement compounds.

The sections of the pipeline at the working chamber entrance are made of steel pipes with a smaller diameter when using high-pressure reinforced concrete pipes, which helps to reduce the size of the working chambers. In order to waterproof the pipe in areas where it comes into contact with the concrete surface, bitumen or cement must be used.

Reinforced concrete pipes have recently been replaced with plastic water pipes from the PipeLife PRAGMA series to make this process easier. In this instance, a specially designed transition from the pragma pipe to a concrete well is used to seal the inlet hole and reduce its diameter. This allows for superior insulation and strengthening of the completed connection.

Classification of products

For round and rectangular wells, the industry offers standard reinforced concrete products that are made in compliance with GOST 8020–68. These products include:

• wall rings (KS) of 1.0, 1.6, 2.0 m — designed for the construction of pipeline units Ø 60–600 mm;

• rectangular profile of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 m — for pipelines Ø 350–1000 mm.

• Floor slabs (PP);

• Cover rings (PK);

• Bottom plate (PN);

• Support ring (SR), additional elements, neck.

At the neck of the structures are covered hatches that can be made of the following materials, depending on the intended use:

1. Cast iron or steel (GOST 3634–61) for installation on the roadway of city streets.

1. Reinforced concrete manhole covers (GOST 3634–99) are used outside the city limits or in places with limited traffic. The price of such manholes is much lower than cast iron or metal ones, which significantly reduces the cost of construction of water supply networks.

1. Polymer-based manholes. Used when laying a water supply line in the area of ​​pedestrian paths or highways intended for the passage of vehicles with a carrying capacity of up to 5 tons.

Wells made of reinforced concrete are crucial constructions that are utilized for sewage management and water supply systems. It is easier to ensure the longevity and efficient use of reinforced concrete wells if one is aware of the various types of wells, their functions, and the design principles behind them. This article examines the main varieties of reinforced concrete wells, their unique purposes, and the essential design elements to take into account for long-term durability and optimal performance.

Type	Purpose	Design Features
Inspection Wells	Used for maintenance and inspection of sewer and drainage systems.	Typically have a cover and are designed for easy access.
Water Wells	Provide access to underground water sources for drinking or irrigation.	Include a casing to prevent contamination and ensure water quality.
Shaft Wells	Used in construction for deep foundations or as part of elevator shafts.	Reinforced to withstand heavy loads and deep excavation.
Stormwater Wells	Help manage and control stormwater runoff.	Designed with a filtration system to reduce pollutants and manage water flow.

Wells made of reinforced concrete are vital parts of contemporary architecture because they are practical and long-lasting. Knowing the different kinds and styles of these wells can help you choose the best one for your project. Reinforced concrete offers a long-lasting, reliable solution for any kind of well, be it for utility access, sewage, or water.

The intended use and the environmental factors it will encounter are key factors in selecting the right kind of reinforced concrete well. Every kind of well—from basic wells to customized designs—offers special advantages catered to particular requirements. You can make sure the well works well and lasts for many years by taking into account variables like depth, load-bearing requirements, and soil conditions.

For reinforced concrete wells to last and function properly, appropriate design and construction techniques must be used. To create a well that can support its intended load and withstand environmental stresses, high-quality materials and expert workmanship are essential. You can guarantee that your well will provide dependable service for its whole lifespan by adhering to best practices during the design and installation processes.

Video on the topic

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