RCC Hume Pipe – Full Form, IS 458 Standards & Weight Calculation Guide

Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) Pipes, commonly known as RCC Hume Pipes, are essential in modern civil engineering for water drainage, culverts, sewer systems, and irrigation. These pipes are strong, durable, and capable of withstanding heavy loads under soil and roadways. RCC Hume Pipes are a backbone of drainage and sewage systems due to their durability and strength. Following IS 458 standards ensures performance and longevity. Calculating the weight accurately aids in planning transport and installation.

What is the Full Form of RCC Pipe?

RCC stands for Reinforced Cement Concrete, indicating the pipe is made from cement concrete that is reinforced with steel bars for added strength and longevity.

What is RCC Hume Pipe?

RCC Hume Pipe is a type of RCC pipe designed using the Hume spinning process. These pipes are manufactured using a centrifugal method that compacts concrete and provides a smooth, dense finish. They are extensively used for underground drainage and sewage systems.

Applications of RCC Hume Pipes

• Underground drainage systems
• Culverts and cross-drainage works
• Sewage pipelines
• Irrigation canals and water supply lines
• Stormwater drain systems

Types of RCC Pipes

RCC pipes are categorized based on load-bearing capacity:

• NP1 (Non-Pressure Class 1): Light duty
• NP2 (Non-Pressure Class 2): Medium duty
• NP3 (Non-Pressure Class 3): Heavy duty
• NP4 (Non-Pressure Class 4): Extra heavy-duty for industrial use

IS 458: Standard for RCC Pipes

The Indian Standard IS 458:2003 specifies requirements for RCC pipes, including:

• Classification (NP1 to NP4)
• Dimensions and tolerances
• Reinforcement details
• Hydrostatic test pressure
• Load-bearing testing

Key Highlights of IS 458:

• Pipe length: Usually 2 to 2.5 meters
• Diameter: 100mm to 2600mm
• Socket & Spigot or Flush joint types
• Minimum wall thickness based on diameter and class

Materials Used in RCC Pipe Manufacturing

• OPC cement (Grade 33/43/53)
• Sand and coarse aggregates
• Mild steel or high-yield strength deformed bars
• Water (portable/clean)

Manufacturing Process of RCC Hume Pipes

1. Centrifugal Spinning Method
2. Vertical Casting Method
3. Vibrated Casting Method

The centrifugal method (Hume process) is most common due to its compact and consistent finish.

Joint Types in RCC Pipes

• Socket & Spigot Joint
• Rubber Ring Joint
• Collar Joint
• Flush Joint

Each joint is designed to provide watertight connections between pipes.

Advantages of RCC Pipes

• Long service life
• Withstands high external load
• Resistant to corrosion and chemical attack
• Low maintenance
• Suitable for all types of soils

Disadvantages of RCC Pipes

• Heavy (difficult to handle)
• Expensive transportation and installation
• Requires skilled labour for jointing

How to Calculate the Weight of RCC Pipe?

To calculate the weight of an RCC pipe:

Formula: Weight = Volume of concrete × Density of concrete (Approx. 2400 kg/m³)

Step-by-Step Example:

• Outer diameter (OD) = 1000 mm = 1.0 m
• Inner diameter (ID) = 900 mm = 0.9 m
• Length = 2.5 m

1. Outer Volume = π/4 × OD² × Length
2. = 3.1416/4 × (1)² × 2.5 = 1.9635 m³
3. Inner Volume = π/4 × ID² × Length
4. = 3.1416/4 × (0.9)² × 2.5 = 1.5904 m³
5. Net Volume = Outer – Inner = 1.9635 – 1.5904 = 0.3731 m³
6. Weight = 0.3731 × 2400 = 895.44 kg (approx.)

Standard Sizes of RCC Pipes

Testing of RCC Hume Pipes

• Hydrostatic pressure test
• Three-edge bearing test
• Dimensional tolerance check
• Reinforcement placement inspection

IS Code Marking on RCC Pipes

Each RCC pipe must have:

• IS 458 stamp
• Manufacturer name
• Pipe class (NP1 to NP4)
• Size and year of manufacture

Tips for RCC Pipe Installation

• Ensure proper bedding and trench depth
• Use suitable lifting equipment
• Align and connect joints carefully
• Seal joints with mortar or rubber rings

Maintenance of RCC Pipes

• Periodic inspection for cracks or misalignment
• Cleaning of silt and blockages
• Joint seal check and repair

FAQs