Inspection chambers are essential for accessing underground pipes for maintenance and inspection. Here’s our streamlined guide to how to install inspection chambers correctly:
Table of Contents
Site Preparation
- Location: Choose a spot providing easy access to the drainage system—typically where pipes intersect or change direction.
- Excavate: Dig a pit 300mm wider in diameter than the chamber, ensuring it’s deep enough to avoid frost damage.
- Foundation: Lay compacted backfill or pea shingle at the bottom to create a stable base.
Installing the Chamber Base
- Align Base: Place the chamber base in the pit, ensuring alignment with inlet and outlet pipes. Remove blanking plugs only from the inlets and outlets you’re using.
- Lubricate: Apply a universal joint lubricant around the inner edge of the base to ease the installation of riser sections.
Assembling Riser Sections
- Seal and Insert: Insert the rubber seal into the riser section groove, lubricate, and fit it into the base. Rotate 180° for even distribution.
- Adjust Height: Add riser sections as needed, ensuring they are tightly sealed and level with the ground surface.
Final Adjustments
- Check Alignment: Ensure everything is aligned for smooth water flow.
- Backfill: Use pea shingle up to the pipework’s crown, then backfill with compacted soil. For heavy traffic areas, surround the top section with additional support material and add a concrete slab.
- Install Lid: Secure the frame and lid, making sure it’s level with the surface.
Important Considerations
- Spacing: Install inspection chambers every 22 meters along straight runs and at directional changes.
- Depth: Install riser sections to bring the chamber access to ground level for easy maintenance.
- Traffic Areas: Concrete around the chamber in heavy traffic zones to prevent shifting and damage.
Proper installation of inspection chambers is crucial for effective drainage system maintenance. By following these steps and paying attention to key details, you’ll ensure a durable and functional setup that provides reliable access for years to come.
How Can We Help?
At Cotterills, we offer a wide range of inspection chambers and can help you select the best components for your needs and budget. call our friendly team a call on 0121 351 3230
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