Design of exposed sewer pipes for intermittent use under freezing conditions

• Main Author: Stephenson, D. G.
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: National Research Council of Canada 1959
• Subjects: Sewers; Égouts; Canada; Ice; permafrost
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.4224/20338148; https://nrc-publications.canada.ca/eng/view/ft/?id=8495e27e-8dd8-4aeb-920a-fec9b8bc83e2; https://nrc-publications.canada.ca/eng/view/object/?id=8495e27e-8dd8-4aeb-920a-fec9b8bc83e2; https://nrc-publications.canada.ca/fra/voir/objet/?id=8495e27e-8dd8-4aeb-920a-fec9b8bc83e2

In many locations in northern Canada, the presence of permafrost requires sewage effluent pipes from buildings to be located above grade where they are exposed to ambient air temperature. Since the air temperature is well below 32 degrees F for several months each year, it is necessary to protect against freezing. Experience has suggested that this can be done at minium cost by designing for intermittent flow through the pipe utilizing a siphon method of discharge from the sewage collection tank. This paper analyzes the heat transfer situation and shows how the exposed pipe may be designed for intermittent use so that ice will not restrict the flow. Peer reviewed: No NRC publication: Yes