ASTM C655-19a

Standard Specification for Reinforced Concrete D-Load Culvert, Storm Drain, and Sewer Pipe

ABSTRACT
This specification covers reinforced concrete pipe, D-load culvert, storm drain, and sewer pipe for the conveyance of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water. The numerical values in this specification are not presented in inch-pound units, but rather, in metric or SI units only. The reinforced concrete shall consist of cementitious materials, mineral aggregates, and water, in which steel has been embedded in such a manner that the steel and concrete act together. The combination of cementitious materials used in the concrete shall be only one of the following: Portland cement, Portland blast furnace slag cement, slag modified Portland cement, Portland pozzolan cement, a combination of Portland cement and fly ash, a combination of Portland cement and ground granulated blast-furnace slag, or a combination of Portland cement, ground granulated blast furnace slag, and fly ash. Reinforcement shall conform to the standard specification. Physical requirements shall conform to the design strength designation of the pipe during load test. The aggregates shall be sized, graded, proportioned, and mixed with such proportions of cementitious materials and water as will produce a homogeneous concrete mixture of such quality that the pipe shall conform to the test and design requirements of this specification. The strength of the pipe shall not be adversely affected by the splice. Compression tests for determining concrete compressive strength shall be allowed to be made on either concrete cylinders or on cores drilled from the pipe. Pipe shall be repaired, if necessary, because of imperfections in manufacture, damage during handling, or pipe that have been cored for testing.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers reinforced concrete pipe designed for specific D-loads and intended to be used for the conveyance of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water and for the construction of culverts.  
1.2 This specification is the inch-pound companion to Specification C655M; therefore, no SI equivalents are presented in this specification. Reinforced concrete pipe that conform to the requirements of C655M are acceptable under this Specification C655 unless prohibited by the Owner.
Note 1: Experience has shown that the successful performance of this product depends upon the proper selection of the pipe strength, the type of bedding and backfill, the care that the installation conforms to the construction specifications, and provision for adequate inspection at the construction site. This specification does not include requirements for bedding, backfill, the relationship between field load conditions and the strength designation of pipe, or durability under unusual environmental conditions. These requirements should be included in the project specification.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Jul-2019
• ICS: 23.040.50 - Pipes and fittings of other materials
• Technical Committee: C13 - Concrete Pipe
• Drafting Committee: C13.02 - Reinforced Sewer and Culvert Pipe

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C655-19 - Standard Specification for Reinforced Concrete D-Load Culvert, Storm Drain, and Sewer Pipe
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM A1064/A1064M-24 - Standard Specification for Carbon-Steel Wire and Welded Wire Reinforcement, Plain and Deformed, for Concrete
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM C989/C989M-24 - Standard Specification for Slag Cement for Use in Concrete and Mortars
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM C1628-19(2024) - Standard Specification for Joints for Concrete Gravity Flow Sewer Pipe, Using Rubber Gaskets
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C497-19a - Standard Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Concrete Box Sections, Manhole Sections, or Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM C443-19a - Standard Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM C443-19 - Standard Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM C150/C150M-19 - Standard Specification for Portland Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C497-19 - Standard Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Concrete Box Sections, Manhole Sections, or Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM A1064/A1064M-18 - Standard Specification for Carbon-Steel Wire and Welded Wire Reinforcement, Plain and Deformed, for Concrete
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM C497-18b - Standard Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Manhole Sections, or Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2018
• Refers: ASTM C497-18a - Standard Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Manhole Sections, or Tile
• Effective Date: 01-May-2018
• Refers: ASTM C497-18 - Standard Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Manhole Sections, or Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM C822-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM C618-17 - Standard Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017

Overview

ASTM C655-19a is the internationally recognized standard specification for reinforced concrete D-load culvert, storm drain, and sewer pipe. Published by ASTM International, this document establishes requirements for prefabricated reinforced concrete pipe designed for the conveyance of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water. Its primary focus is on D-load classified pipes commonly used in public infrastructure projects, including storm drains, sewers, and culverts. The standard ensures product quality and performance by specifying materials, design, physical properties, and acceptance criteria.

Key Topics

• Design Criteria

  • Pipes are classified by D-load, representing the load-bearing capacity per linear foot per foot of pipe diameter.
  • Design must achieve a minimum strength, measured using three-edge bearing tests with a 0.01-inch crack criterion.

• Materials Requirements

  • Concrete must incorporate cementitious materials such as Portland cement, blended cements, fly ash, slag cement, or permitted combinations.
  • Aggregates must meet ASTM C33/C33M requirements, while admixtures and mixing water must comply with respective ASTM standards.
  • Steel reinforcement is required and must align with relevant ASTM specifications for bars and wire reinforcement.

• Dimensions and Manufacturing

  • Standard sizes are specified for internal diameters (typically from 12 to 144 inches).
  • Tolerances are prescribed for diameter, wall thickness, reinforcement placement, and overall length.
  • Joints must be designed to ensure alignment and integrity, using approved methods such as gaskets or sealants.

• Inspection and Acceptance

  • Pipes are subject to load and material testing, including compressive strength tests on cores or cylinders.
  • Acceptance can be determined by pipe load tests or by concrete compression results, depending on project requirements.
  • Pipes showing manufacturing imperfections or insufficient strength may be repaired or rejected.

Applications

ASTM C655-19a is critical for civil engineers, contractors, and municipal authorities engaged in:

• Municipal Infrastructure

  • Construction of storm drains, sanitary sewers, and box culverts for managing water flow and waste.

• Industrial Projects

  • Installation of reinforced concrete pipe systems for handling industrial wastewaters under defined loading conditions.

• Transportation and Roadway Projects

  • Under-road culverts and drainage systems requiring durable and load-tested pipe products.

• Water Management

  • Projects where stringent physical and structural requirements are necessary to ensure longevity and reliability in storm water and sewage conveyance.

The standard is essential in ensuring that reinforced concrete pipes perform reliably in various field conditions, withstanding load, environmental stresses, and installation variables.

Related Standards

For full compliance and quality control, the following ASTM standards are often referenced in conjunction with ASTM C655-19a:

• ASTM C33/C33M - Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates
• ASTM C150/C150M - Portland Cement Specification
• ASTM C595/C595M - Blended Hydraulic Cements
• ASTM C618 - Fly Ash/Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan
• ASTM A1064/A1064M - Steel Wire and Welded Wire Reinforcement
• ASTM C443, C990, C1628 - Joint specifications for rubber gaskets or preformed flexible joint sealants
• ASTM C497 - Test Methods for Concrete Pipe and Related Products

Practical Value

Using ASTM C655-19a ensures that reinforced concrete pipes meet critical strength, durability, and quality requirements for effective and long-lasting performance. It helps project owners, designers, and inspectors specify products that are fit for their intended use, minimize failures in the field, and streamline procurement with standardized products. Compliance also facilitates project approvals and helps meet regulatory requirements in municipal and infrastructure projects, supporting sustainable and resilient water and wastewater management systems.

Keywords: ASTM C655-19a, reinforced concrete pipe, D-load, culvert, storm drain pipe, sewer pipe, infrastructure standards, concrete pipe specification, load-bearing pipe, ASTM standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C655 −19a
Standard Specification for
Reinforced Concrete D-Load Culvert, Storm Drain, and
Sewer Pipe
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C655; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* A706/A706M Specification for Deformed and Plain Low-
Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
1.1 This specification covers reinforced concrete pipe de-
A1064/A1064M Specification for Carbon-Steel Wire and
signed for specific D-loads and intended to be used for the
Welded Wire Reinforcement, Plain and Deformed, for
conveyance of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water and
Concrete
for the construction of culverts.
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
1.2 This specification is the inch-pound companion to
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
Specification C655M; therefore, no SI equivalents are pre-
C260/C260M Specification for Air-Entraining Admixtures
sented in this specification. Reinforced concrete pipe that
for Concrete
conform to the requirements of C655M are acceptable under
C494/C494M Specification for Chemical Admixtures for
this Specification C655 unless prohibited by the Owner.
Concrete
C443 Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and
NOTE 1—Experience has shown that the successful performance of this
product depends upon the proper selection of the pipe strength, the type of
Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets
bedding and backfill, the care that the installation conforms to the
C497 Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Concrete Box
construction specifications, and provision for adequate inspection at the
Sections, Manhole Sections, or Tile
construction site. This specification does not include requirements for
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
bedding, backfill, the relationship between field load conditions and the
C618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined
strength designation of pipe, or durability under unusual environmental
conditions. These requirements should be included in the project specifi-
Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
cation.
C822 Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related
1.3 This international standard was developed in accor-
Products
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
C989/C989M Specification for Slag Cement for Use in
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Concrete and Mortars
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
C990 Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe, Manholes,
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
and Precast Box Sections Using Preformed Flexible Joint
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Sealants
C1017/C1017M Specification for Chemical Admixtures for
2. Referenced Documents Use in Producing Flowing Concrete
C1116/C1116M Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C1602/C1602M Specification for Mixing Water Used in the
A36/A36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
Production of Hydraulic Cement Concrete
A615/A615M Specification for Deformed and Plain Carbon-
C1628 Specification for Joints for Concrete Gravity Flow
Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
Sewer Pipe, Using Rubber Gaskets
E105 Practice for Probability Sampling of Materials
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C13 on
3. Terminology
Concrete Pipe and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C13.02 on
Reinforced Sewer and Culvert Pipe.
3.1 Definitions—Fordefinitionsoftermsrelatingtoconcrete
Current edition approved July 15, 2019. Published July 2019. Originally
pipe, see Terminology C822.
approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as C655 – 19. DOI:
10.1520/C0655-19A.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 4. Basis of Acceptance
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
4.1 The acceptability of the pipe design shall be determined
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. in accordance with Section 9. After the pipe design has been
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C655 − 19a
accepted, or if the pipe design has been accepted previously in (2) Portland blast-furnace slag cement only,
accordance with Section 9, the owner may select and have (3) Portland-pozzolan cement only,
applied the basis of acceptance described in either 4.1.1 or (4) Portland-limestone cement only,
4.1.2. Unless designated by the owner at the time of, or before (5) A combination of portland cement or portland-
placing an order, either basis of acceptance shall be permitted. limestone cement and fly ash,
4.1.1 Acceptance on the Basis of Pipe Load and Material (6) A combination of portland cement or portland-
Tests and Inspection of Manufactured Pipe for Defects— limestone cement and slag cement,
Determine in accordance with Sections 5, 6, 8, and 10. (7) A combination of portland cement or portland-
limestone cement, slag cement, and fly ash, or
NOTE 2—It is necessary that samples be selected at random. For
(8) A combination of portland-pozzolan cement and fly
guidance see Practice E105.
ash.
4.1.2 Acceptance on the Basis of Concrete Compression and
6.1.3 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to the require-
Materials Tests and Inspection of Manufactured Pipe for
ments of Specification C33/C33M, except that the requirement
Defects—DetermineinaccordancewithSections5,6,8and 11.
for gradation shall not apply.
4.2 Age for Acceptance—Pipe shall be considered ready for
6.1.4 Admixtures—The following admixtures and blends are
acceptance when they conform to the requirements.
allowable:
6.1.4.1 Air-entraining admixture conforming to Specifica-
5. Design and Manufacturing Data
tion C260/C260M;
5.1 The manufacturer shall provide the following informa-
6.1.4.2 Chemical admixture conforming to Specification
tion regarding the pipe unless waived by the owner:
C494/C494M;
5.1.1 Basis of acceptance.
6.1.4.3 Chemical admixture for use in producing flowing
5.1.2 Pipe design strength.
concrete conforming to Specification C1017/C1017M; and
5.1.3 Physical Characteristics—Diameter, wall thickness,
6.1.4.4 Chemical admixture or blend approved by the
laying length, and joint details.
owner.
5.1.4 Design concrete strength; minimum f ' equals 4000
c
6.1.5 Steel Reinforcement—Reinforcement shall consist of
psi.
wire or welded wire conforming to Specification A1064/
5.1.5 Admixtures.
A1064M, or of bars conforming to Specification A36/A36M,
5.1.6 Reinforcement:
Specification A615/A615M Grade 40 or 60, or Specification
5.1.6.1 Type of reinforcement, applicable reinforcement
A706/A706M Grade 60. For helically wound cages only, weld
specification, and grade.
shear tests are not required.
5.1.6.2 Placement, placement tolerances, diameter, spacing
6.1.6 Fibers—Synthetic fibers and nonsynthetic fibers shall
and cross-sectional area of circumferential, longitudinal, and
beallowedtobeused,atthemanufacturer’soption,inconcrete
special reinforcement.
pipeasanonstructuralmanufacturingmaterial.Syntheticfibers
5.1.7 Manufacturing and curing process.
(Type II and Type III) and nonsynthetic fiber (Type I) designed
and manufactured specifically for use in concrete and conform-
6. Materials and Manufacture
ing to the requirements of Specification C1116/C1116M shall
6.1 Materials:
be accepted.
6.1.1 Reinforced Concrete—The reinforced concrete shall
6.2 Manufacture:
consist of cementitious materials, mineral aggregates,
6.2.1 Mixture—The aggregates shall be sized, graded,
admixtures, if used, and water, in which steel has been
proportioned, and mixed with such proportions of cementitious
embedded in such a manner that the steel and concrete act
materials, water, and admixtures, if any, to produce a thor-
together.
oughly mixed concrete of such quality that the pipe will
6.1.2 Cementitious Materials:
conform to the test and design requirements of this specifica-
6.1.2.1 Cement—Cement shall conform to the requirements
tion. All concrete shall have a water-cementitious materials
for portland cement of Specification C150/C150M or shall be
ratio not exceeding 0.53 by weight. Cementitious materials
portland blast-furnace slag cement, portland-limestone cement,
shall be as specified in 6.1 and shall be added to the mix in a
or portland-pozzolan cement conforming to the requirements
proportion not less than 470 lb/yd unless mix designs with a
of Specification C595/C595M, except that the pozzolan con-
lower cementitious material content demonstrate that the
stituent in the Type IP portland pozzolan cement shall be fly
quality and performance of the pipe meet the requirements of
ash.
this specification.
6.1.2.2 Fly Ash—Fly ash shall conform to the requirements
6.2.1.1 Mixing Water—Water used in the production of
of Specification C618, Class F or Class C.
concrete shall be potable or nonpotable water that meets the
6.1.2.3 Slag Cement—Slag cement shall conform to the
requirements of Specification C1602/C1602M.
requirements of Grade 100 or 120 of Specification C989/
C989M. 6.2.2 Reinforcement:
6.1.2.4 Allowable Combinations of Cementitious 6.2.2.1 Placement—Reinforcement shall be placed as indi-
Materials—The combination of cementitious materials used in cated in 5.1.6.2, subject to the tolerances given in 8.2.2.
the cement shall be one of the following: Minimum design protective cover of concrete over the circum-
(1) Portland cement only, ferential reinforcement in the barrel of the pipe shall be 1 in.
C655 − 19a
1 3
larger than 144 in. are possibly available. When such sizes are required,
for wall thicknesses of 2 ⁄2 in. or greater, and ⁄4 in. for wall
1 the owner should contact the manufacturers in the area.
thicknesses less than 2 ⁄2 in., subject to the tolerances given in
8.2.2. 8.2 Design Tolerances—Except as specified in this section,
6.2.2.2 Splices—The strength of the pipe shall not be all permissible design tolerances shall be given in Section 5.
adversely affected by the splice. 8.2.1 Internal Diameter—The internal diameter of 12
6.2.2.3 Spacing—The spacing center-to-center of adjacent through 24-in. pipe shall not vary more than 2 % of the design
rings of circumferential reinforcement in a cage shall not diameter for 12-in. pipe and 1 ⁄2 % for 24-in. pipe with
exceed 4 in. for pipe with a wall thickness up to and including intermediate size variation being a linear scale between 2 and
4 in. and shall not exceed the wall thickness or 6 in., whichever 1 ⁄2 %.The internal diameter of sizes 27-in. and larger shall not
is smaller, for larger pipe. vary by more than 1 % of the design diameter or 6 ⁄8-in.,
6.2.3 Joints—Thejointsshallbeofsuchdesignandtheends whicheverisgreater.Thesediameterrequirementsarebasedon
of the concrete pipe sections so formed that when the sections the average of four diameter measurements at a distance of
are laid together they will make a continuous line of pipe with 12-in. from the end of the bell or spigot of the pipe. Diameter
a smooth interior free of appreciable irregularities in the flow verification shall be made on the number of pipe selected for
line, all compatible with the permissible variations given in test per Section 11.
Section 8. Joints shall conform to the requirements of Speci- 8.2.2 Reinforcement Placement Tolerances—The maximum
fications C443, C990, C1628, or other established joint types variation in the nominal position of the reinforcement shall be
approved by the owner, including, but not limited to, mortar, 610 % of the wall thickness or 6 ⁄8 in., whichever is greater.
sealant or externally-wrapped joints. Pipe having variations in the position of the reinforcement
6.2.4 Lift Holes—When agreed upon by the owner, lift eyes exceeding those specified above shall be accepted if the
or holes shall be allowed to be provided in each pipe for the three-edge-bearing strength requirements obtained on a repre-
purpose of handling. sentative sample are met. In no case, however, shall the cover
over the circumferential reinforcement be less than ⁄8 in.
7. Physical Requirements
8.2.3 Length of Two Opposite Sides—Variations in the
7.1 Strength—The design strength designation of the pipe laying length of two opposite sides of pipe shall not be more
than ⁄4in.forallsizesthrough24-in.internaldiameter,andnot
shall be the D-load to produce the 0.01-in. crack when tested in
accordance with Test Methods C497. The relationship of more than ⁄8 in./ft of internal diameter for all larger sizes, with
a maximum of ⁄8 in. in any pipe through 84-in. internal
ultimate strength D-load to the design strength D-load shall be
determined using a factor of 1.5 for design strength designa- diameter, and a maximum of ⁄4 in. for 90-in. internal diameter
or larger, except where beveled-end pipe for laying on curves
tions up to 2000 lbf/ft·ft of diameter, a factor varying in linear
proportions from 1.5 to 1.25 for design strength designations is specified by the owner.
8.2.4 Length of Pipe—Theunderruninlengthofasectionof
from 2000 through 3000, and a factor of 1.25 for design
1 1
strength designations in excess of 3000. pipe shall not be more than ⁄8 in./ft with a maximum of ⁄2 in.
in any length of pipe.
NOTE 3—As used in this specification, the 0.01-in. crack is a test
8.2.5 Wall Thickness Tolerances—The wall thickness shall
criterion for pipe tested in three-edge bearing test and is not intended as
be not less than the nominal specified in the design given in
an indication of overstressed or failed pipe under installed conditions.
NOTE 4—Ultimate strength of concrete pipe in the buried condition is 5.1.3 by more than 5 % or ⁄16 in., whichever is greater.Awall
dependent on varying soil bedding factors and varying failure modes and
thickness more than that required in the design is not a cause
shall not necessarily have a relationship to the ultimate strength as defined
for rejection, except that such pipe shall not be used for the
under three-edge bearing conditions.
tests required in 7.3.
7.2 Test Equipment and Facilities—The manufacturer shall
furnish without charge all samples, facilities, and personnel 9. Acceptance of Design
necessary to carry out the tests required by this specification.
9.1 Acceptance by Tests of Specimens—Three to five repre-
7.3 Pipe Load Tests—The tests for crushing strength, when
sentative specimens, or special test pipe that are shorter than
required,shallbemadeinaccordancewithTestMethodsC497. standard production pipe, as agreed upon by the owner and
When alternative methods of load testing are specified, tests
manufacturer, shall be tested to the 0.01-in. crack and to
shall be made in accordance with the alternative requirements. ultimate strength and the results recorded. Compute the values
in 9.1.1 and 9.1.2 for both the 0.01-in. crack and the ultimate
8. Dimensions and Permissible Variations
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C655 − 19 C655 − 19a
Standard Specification for
Reinforced Concrete D-Load Culvert, Storm Drain, and
Sewer Pipe
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C655; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This specification covers reinforced concrete pipe designed for specific D-loads and intended to be used for the conveyance
of sewage, industrial wastes, and storm water and for the construction of culverts.
1.2 This specification is the inch-pound companion to Specification C655M; therefore, no SI equivalents are presented in this
specification. Reinforced concrete pipe that conform to the requirements of C655M are acceptable under this Specification C655
unless prohibited by the Owner.
NOTE 1—Experience has shown that the successful performance of this product depends upon the proper selection of the pipe strength, the type of
bedding and backfill, the care that the installation conforms to the construction specifications, and provision for adequate inspection at the construction
site. This specification does not include requirements for bedding, backfill, the relationship between field load conditions and the strength designation of
pipe, or durability under unusual environmental conditions. These requirements should be included in the project specification.
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A36/A36M Specification for Carbon Structural Steel
A615/A615M Specification for Deformed and Plain Carbon-Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
A706/A706M Specification for Deformed and Plain Low-Alloy Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement
A1064/A1064M Specification for Carbon-Steel Wire and Welded Wire Reinforcement, Plain and Deformed, for Concrete
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
C260/C260M Specification for Air-Entraining Admixtures for Concrete
C494/C494M Specification for Chemical Admixtures for Concrete
C443 Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets
C497 Test Methods for Concrete Pipe, Concrete Box Sections, Manhole Sections, or Tile
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
C618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
C822 Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related Products
C989/C989M Specification for Slag Cement for Use in Concrete and Mortars
C990 Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe, Manholes, and Precast Box Sections Using Preformed Flexible Joint Sealants
C1017/C1017M Specification for Chemical Admixtures for Use in Producing Flowing Concrete
C1116/C1116M Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
C1602/C1602M Specification for Mixing Water Used in the Production of Hydraulic Cement Concrete
C1628 Specification for Joints for Concrete Gravity Flow Sewer Pipe, Using Rubber Gaskets
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C13 on Concrete Pipe and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C13.02 on Reinforced Sewer
and Culvert Pipe.
Current edition approved July 1, 2019July 15, 2019. Published July 2019. Originally approved in 1970. Last previous edition approved in 20182019 as
C655 – 18.C655 – 19. DOI: 10.1520/C0655-19.10.1520/C0655-19A.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C655 − 19a
E105 Practice for Probability Sampling of Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms relating to concrete pipe, see Terminology C822.
4. Basis of Acceptance
4.1 The acceptability of the pipe design shall be determined in accordance with Section 9. After the pipe design has been
accepted, or if the pipe design has been accepted previously in accordance with Section 9, the owner may select and have applied
the basis of acceptance described in either 4.1.1 or 4.1.2. Unless designated by the owner at the time of, or before placing an order,
either basis of acceptance shall be permitted.
4.1.1 Acceptance on the Basis of Pipe Load and Material Tests and Inspection of Manufactured Pipe for Defects—Determine
in accordance with Sections 5, 6, 8, and 10.
NOTE 2—It is necessary that samples be selected at random. For guidance see Practice E105.
4.1.2 Acceptance on the Basis of Concrete Compression and Materials Tests and Inspection of Manufactured Pipe for
Defects—Determine in accordance with Sections 5, 6, 8 and 11.
4.2 Age for Acceptance—Pipe shall be considered ready for acceptance when they conform to the requirements.
5. Design and Manufacturing Data
5.1 The manufacturer shall provide the following information regarding the pipe unless waived by the owner:
5.1.1 Basis of acceptance.
5.1.2 Pipe design strength.
5.1.3 Physical Characteristics—Diameter, wall thickness, laying length, and joint details.
5.1.4 Design concrete strength; minimum f ' equals 4000 psi.
c
5.1.5 Admixtures.
5.1.6 Reinforcement:
5.1.6.1 Type of reinforcement, applicable reinforcement specification, and grade.
5.1.6.2 Placement, placement tolerances, diameter, spacing and cross-sectional area of circumferential, longitudinal, and special
reinforcement.
5.1.7 Manufacturing and curing process.
6. Materials and Manufacture
6.1 Materials:
6.1.1 Reinforced Concrete—The reinforced concrete shall consist of cementitious materials, mineral aggregates, admixtures, if
used, and water, in which steel has been embedded in such a manner that the steel and concrete act together.
6.1.2 Cementitious Materials:
6.1.2.1 Cement—Cement shall conform to the requirements for portland cement of Specification C150/C150M or shall be
portland blast-furnace slag cement, portland-limestone cement, or portland-pozzolan cement conforming to the requirements of
Specification C595/C595M, except that the pozzolan constituent in the Type IP portland pozzolan cement shall be fly ash.
6.1.2.2 Fly Ash—Fly ash shall conform to the requirements of Specification C618, Class F or Class C.
6.1.2.3 Slag Cement—Slag cement shall conform to the requirements of Grade 100 or 120 of Specification C989/C989M.
6.1.2.4 Allowable Combinations of Cementitious Materials—The combination of cementitious materials used in the cement
shall be one of the following:
(1) Portland cement only,
(2) Portland blast-furnace slag cement only,
(3) Portland-pozzolan cement only,
(4) Portland-limestone cement only,
(5) A combination of portland cement or portland-limestone cement and fly ash,
(6) A combination of portland cement or portland-limestone cement and slag cement,
(7) A combination of portland cement or portland-limestone cement, slag cement, and fly ash, or
(8) A combination of portland-pozzolan cement and fly ash.
6.1.3 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to the requirements of Specification C33/C33M, except that the requirement for
gradation shall not apply.
6.1.4 Admixtures—The following admixtures and blends are allowable:
6.1.4.1 Air-entraining admixture conforming to Specification C260/C260M;
6.1.4.2 Chemical admixture conforming to Specification C494/C494M;
6.1.4.3 Chemical admixture for use in producing flowing concrete conforming to Specification C1017/C1017M; and
6.1.4.4 Chemical admixture or blend approved by the owner.
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6.1.5 Steel Reinforcement—Reinforcement shall consist of wire or welded wire conforming to Specification A1064/A1064M,
or of bars conforming to Specification A36/A36M, Specification A615/A615M Grade 40 or 60, or Specification A706/A706M
Grade 60. For helically wound cages only, weld shear tests are not required.
6.1.6 Fibers—Synthetic fibers and nonsynthetic fibers shall be allowed to be used, at the manufacturer’s option, in concrete pipe
as a nonstructural manufacturing material. Synthetic fibers (Type II and Type III) and nonsynthetic fiber (Type I) designed and
manufactured specifically for use in concrete and conforming to the requirements of Specification C1116/C1116M shall be
accepted.
6.2 Manufacture:
6.2.1 Mixture—The aggregates shall be sized, graded, proportioned, and mixed with such proportions of cementitious materials,
water, and admixtures, if any, to produce a thoroughly mixed concrete of such quality that the pipe will conform to the test and
design requirements of this specification. All concrete shall have a water-cementitious materials ratio not exceeding 0.53 by weight.
Cementitious materials shall be as specified in 6.1 and shall be added to the mix in a proportion not less than 470 lb/yd unless
mix designs with a lower cementitious material content demonstrate that the quality and performance of the pipe meet the
requirements of this specification.
6.2.1.1 Mixing Water—Water used in the production of concrete shall be potable or nonpotable water that meets the
requirements of Specification C1602/C1602M.
6.2.2 Reinforcement:
6.2.2.1 Placement—Reinforcement shall be placed as indicated in 5.1.6.2, subject to the tolerances given in 8.2.2. Minimum
design protective cover of concrete over the circumferential reinforcement in the barrel of the pipe shall be 1 in. for wall
1 3 1
thicknesses of 2 ⁄2 in. or greater, and ⁄4 in. for wall thicknesses less than 2 ⁄2 in., subject to the tolerances given in 8.2.2.
6.2.2.2 Splices—The strength of the pipe shall not be adversely affected by the splice.
6.2.2.3 Spacing—The spacing center-to-center of adjacent rings of circumferential reinforcement in a cage shall not exceed 4
in. for pipe with a wall thickness up to and including 4 in. and shall not exceed the wall thickness or 6 in., whichever is smaller,
for larger pipe.
6.2.3 Joints—The joints shall be of such design and the ends of the concrete pipe sections so formed that when the sections are
laid together they will make a continuous line of pipe with a smooth interior free of appreciable irregularities in the flow line, all
compatible with the permissible variations given in Section 8. Joints shall conform to the requirements of Specifications C443,
C990, C1628, or other established joint types approved by the owner, including, but not limited to, mortar, sealant or
externally-wrapped joints.
6.2.4 Lift Holes—When agreed upon by the owner, lift eyes or holes shall be allowed to be provided in each pipe for the purpose
of handling.
7. Physical Requirements
7.1 Strength—The design strength designation of the pipe shall be the D-load to produce the 0.01-in. crack when tested in
accordance with Test Methods C497. The relationship of ultimate strength D-load to the design strength D-load shall be determined
using a factor of 1.5 for design strength designations up to 2000 lbf/ft·ft of diameter, a factor varying in linear proportions from
1.5 to 1.25 for design strength designations from 2000 through 3000, and a factor of 1.25 for design strength designations in excess
of 3000.
NOTE 3—As used in this specification, the 0.01-in. crack is a test criterion for pipe tested in three-edge bearing test and is not intended as an indication
of overstressed or failed pipe under installed conditions.
NOTE 4—Ultimate strength of concrete pipe in the buried condition is dependent on varying soil bedding factors and varying failure modes and shall
not necessarily have a relationship to the ultimate strength as defined under three-edge bearing conditions.
7.2 Test Equipment and Facilities—The manufacturer shall furnish without charge all samples, facilities, and personnel
necessary to carry out the tests required by this specification.
7.3 Pipe Load Tests—The tests for crushing strength, when required, shall be made in accordance with Test Methods C497.
When alternative methods of load testing are specified, tests shall be made in accordance with the alternative requirements.
8. Dimensions and Permissible Variations
8.1 Standard Diameters—Pipe shall be manufactured in the standard inside diameters listed in Table 1.
NOTE 5—Diameters other than those shown in Table 1 and diameters larger than 144 in. are possibly available. When such sizes are required, the owner
should contact the manufacturers in the area.
TABLE 1 Standard Designated Inside Diameter, in.
12 24 36 60 84 108 132
15 27 42 66 90 114 138
18 30 48 72 96 120 144
21 33 54 78 102 126
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8.2 Design Tolerances—Except as specified in this section, all permissible design tolerances shall be given in Section 5.
8.2.1 Internal Diameter—The internal diameter of 12 through 24-in. pipe shall not vary more than 2 % of the design diameter
1 1
for 12-in. pipe and 1 ⁄2 % for 24-in. pipe with intermediate size variation being a linear scale between 2 and 1 ⁄2 %. The internal
diameter of sizes 27-in. and larger shall not vary by more than 1 % of the design diameter or 6 ⁄8-in., whichever is greater. These
diameter requirements are based on the average of four diameter measurements at a distance of 12-in. from the end of the bell or
spigot of the pipe. Diameter verification shall be made on the number of pipe selected for test per Section 11.
8.2.2 Reinforcement Placement Tolerances—The maximum variation in the nominal position of the reinforcement shall be
610 % of the wall thickness or 6 ⁄8 in., whichever is greater. Pipe having variations in the position of the reinforcement exceeding
those specified above shall be accepted if the three-edge-bearing strength requirements obtained on a representative sample are
met. In no case, however, shall the cover over the circumferential reinforcement be less than ⁄8 in.
8.2.3 Length of Two Opposite Sides—Variations in the laying length of two opposite sides of pipe shall not be more than ⁄4 in.
for all sizes through 24-in. internal diameter, and not more than ⁄8 in./ft of internal diameter for all larger sizes, with a maximum
5 3
of ⁄8 in. in any pipe through 84-in. internal diameter, and a maximum of ⁄4 in. for 90-in. internal diameter or larger, except where
beveled-end pipe for laying on curves is specified by the owner.
1 1
8.2.4 Length of Pipe—The underrun in length of a section of pipe shall not be more than ⁄8 in./ft with a maximum of ⁄2 in. in
any length of pipe.
8.2.5 Wall Thickness Tolerances—The wall thickness shall be not less than the nominal specified in the design given in 5.1.3
by more than 5 % or ⁄16 in., whichever is greater. A wall thickness more than that required in the design is not a cause for rejection,
except that such pipe shall not be used for the tests required in 7.3.
9. Accepta
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