Just below the soil's surface lies a hidden world that profoundly impacts all life above. For generations, farmers have nurtured a deep understanding of their land's natural hydrology, crafting subterranean networks to delicately guide precious resources to wherever most needed.
Modern tubing known as AGI pipe continues age-old traditions of environmental stewardship through innovation. Crafted with strength and durability and strategically situated across fields, these underground helpers work tirelessly every day and night, seldom seen but always vital.
Agi pipes from Austrina Steels
Buildings rely heavily on solid foundations, and the key to achieving such stability lies in establishing effective drainage systems. Understanding the natural patterns of water flow within your property is crucial for implementing proper drainage solutions.
While surface water management may seem like a straightforward option, there are instances where subsoil agricultural drains become necessary. However, if not properly installed, these drainage systems can compound issues related to waterlogged foundations instead of alleviating them.
In light of this consideration, it becomes imperative to comprehend the significance of agricultural pipes when constructing on clay soil or in areas with smaller land plots that touch boundary lines. It is essential not only to recognize the advantages of using agricultural pipes but also to attain proficiency in their installation process.
Agricultural pipes—referred to by various names such as AGI pipes, soakage drains, AG lines, slotted drainage pipes, or French drains—are concealed plastic conduits designed to mitigate potential damage to buildings by efficiently removing excess moisture from the soil.
What Sizes are AGI Pipes?
AGI pipes, also known as agricultural pipes, are available in a variety of sizes and configurations. These include 50mm, 65mm, 100mm, and 160 mm options with different features such as slotted with filter sock or unslotted.
The coil lengths for these pipes range from 10m up to an impressive 200m. At Austrina Steels, our main focus lies in offering shocked and corrugated pipes, specifically the popular 100mm size that comes in a convenient roll of 20m length.
AGI Pipe Installation
Laying the AGI is not a complex task. Even a person with limited knowledge of construction can install AGI pipes, but it is highly recommended to hire professionals to avoid any hiccups later on.
When laying the pipe, it's important to ensure that both the pipe and the bottom of the trench are correctly sloped in alignment with the existing water flow. The recommended gradient is 1 centimeter to half a meter (1 in 50), although a gradient of 1 centimeter to 1 meter (1in 100) can also be effective.
To prepare for installation, dig a trench that is twice as wide as the pipe and at least 25 millimeters deeper than its level. Afterward, lay gravel measuring around 25mm deep in the trench while maintaining an appropriate slope.
When placing the pipe onto this layer of gravel, make sure it remains straight throughout its length. If you use 10mm gravel during this step, there may not be a need for a geo-fabric sock.
Following this, proceed by filling most of the remaining space inside the trench with gravel up to near ground level. Finally, fill up about another depth of around 100 mm with topsoil until reaching ground level again.
Things to Consider
To prevent waterlogged soil, separate pipe systems must be utilized. It is crucial to refrain from connecting AG pipes to roof downpipes or stormwater pipes as this can result in flooding through the AG pipe and reverse flow into the trench, leading to potential weakening of the building.
Furthermore, it is essential never to run AG pipes under the building due to their slotted design. These pipes should be positioned at least 1 meter away from the foundations.
While solid pipes could theoretically be installed beneath a house, optimal practice involves directing water away from that area entirely. In some scenarios, one may consider capturing stormwater on a concrete surface-level spoon drain as an alternative solution.
It's important not to link AGI pipes directly with the stormwater system; however, if downhill from the building, discharging into the stormwater might be suitable for the lower end of the AGI pipe discharge point.
The termination of these AGI pipelines requires proper finishing at ground level for easy maintenance purposes, facilitated by adding a cap at its end to prevent debris entry while allowing flushing capability.
Armed with this comprehensive understanding, you will be well-equipped to successfully install AGI pipes and effectively uphold the structural integrity and long-term value of your property.
