BRITISH STANDARD

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Surface boxes, guards

and underground
challlbers for gas and
W"aterW"orks
purposes
Part 4: Specification for preformed
chambers

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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

BS 5834-4:
1989

BS 5834-4:1989

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
(f)

The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Road

Engineering Standards Policy Committee (RDB/-) to Technical Committee
RDB/37, upon which the following bodies were represented:

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British Foundry Association

British Gas Plc
British Plastics Federation
British Precast Concrete Federation Limited
Clay Pipe Development Association Limited
Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency)
Ductile Iron Pipe Committee
Institution of Gas Engineers
Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Institution of Water and Environmental Management (IWEM)
METCON
National Clayware Federation
Water Authorities Association
Water Companies Association

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This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Road
Engineering Standards Policy
Committee, was published
under the authority of the
Board of BSI and comes
into effect on
29 September 1989

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BSI 09-1999
The following BSI references
relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference RDB/37
Draft for comment 87/10293 DC
ISBN 0 580 17416 6

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No.

Date of issue

Comments

BS 5834-4:1989

Contents
Committees responsible
Foreword
Section 1. General
1
Scope
2
Definitions
3
Grading
4
Marking
Section 2. Reinforced concrete units
5
Materials
6
Manufacture and workmanship
7
Design features and dimensions
8
Design loading tests
9
Sampling tests
Section 3. GRP units
10 General
11 Materials
12 Manufacture and workmanship
13 Design features and dimensions
14 Design criteria
15 Production tests
Appendix A Optional items to be agreed between the
manufacturer and the purchaser

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2
3

4
4

5
6
7
7
7
7
8
8
9

Appendix B Loading tests

9
Appendix C Crushing strength tests of reinforced concrete
intermediate wall sections
10
Appendix D Method for the determination of the initial specific
stiffness of base wall sections for GRP chambers
10
Figure 1 - Typical concrete chamber units and arrangements
12
Figure 2 - Rebated joints for concrete units
13
Figure 3 - Typical GRP chambers
14
Figure 4 - Loading positions for adaptor slabs
15
Figure 5 - Testing arrangements for the crushing test for
reinforced concrete sections
16
Figure 6 - Typical loading arrangement for non-circular sections
with variable cross section
17
Table 1 - Maximum total chloride content
3
Table 2 - Nominal internal size of chamber
4
Table 3 - Bearing slab aperture sizes
4
Table 4 - Slot sizes in RC base wall units
5
Table 5 - Clear opening sizes and design test loads for adaptor slabs
5
Table 6 - Chamber plan dimensions
7
Table 7 - Minimum size of pipe opening
8
Table 8 - Vertical loads for GRP units
8
Table 9 - Classification of specific tangential stiffness
8
Publications referred to
Inside back cover

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BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

Foreword
This Part of BS 5834 has been prepared under the direction of the Road
Engineering Standards Policy Committee and covers a range of the popular sizes
of preformed underground chambers for use with surface boxes specified in
Parts 2 and 3 of BS 5834.
In this Part, the light grading, grade C, has been subdivided to allow for occasions
when chambers need to be located in areas which have only occasional vehicular
access such as private drives.
The design loads required in this Part contain agreed factors of safety. It is
recognized, however, that such factors would not necessarily be applicable to
types of material which, so far, have not been catered for in this standard. Design
loads may be reconsidered if other materials are included in future revisions.

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NOTE Installation techniques (e.g. surrounding in concrete) can significantly contribute to the load
bearing qualit ies of the installed unit. Reference should be made to the appropriate manufacturers'
instructions.

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A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.

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Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 18, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on the
inside front cover.

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11

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

Section 1. General
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1 Scope
This Part of BS 5834 specifies requirements for
preformed underground chamber elements for use
with surface boxes to BS 5834-2 and BS 5834-3. The
materials included are reinforced concrete (RC) and
glass fibre reinforced polyester (GRP). This
standard relates to GRP units made by hand lay-up
and spray-up manufacture only.
A summary of the optional items to be agreed
between the manufacturer and the purchaser is
given in Appendix A.
NOTE The titles of the publications referred to in this standard
are listed on the inside back cover.

2 Definitions
For the purposes of this Part of BS 5834 the
following definitions apply.
2.1
GRP
glass fibre reinforced polyester
2.2
valve/meter chamber
a chamber constructed to house a valve/meter and
providing access for operation and inspection

2.8
clear opening
the access opening in an adaptor slab, top surface
section or unit through which a horizontal plate of
the specified minimum dimensions but with the
corners removed (see 7.1) will pass unimpeded,
without deviation from a vertical axis
2.9
one piece chamber (GRP)
a complete unit constructed with open or enclosed
base, with or without apertures for pipe entry and
providing access for inspection or operation and to
support the surface box cover
2.10
nominal size
a numerical designation of the size of a unit which is
a convenient round number approximately equal to
a manufacturing dimension

3 Grading
Units shall be graded as follows:
(heavy) Grade A

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base wall section

the lowest placed wall section unit incorporating
slots for pipe entry and exit
2.5
intermediate wall section
a wall section unit for extending the wall upwards
from the base wall section
2.6
adaptor slab (RC)
a slab, incorporating an access opening, used at the
top of the chamber and providing support for a
surface box
2.7
top surface section (GRP)
a unit used at the top of a multi-element chamber
providing access for inspection or operation and
designed to support the surface box cover

BSI 09-1999

fast-moving normal
commercial vehicles with
wheelloadsa up to 5 t and
slow-moving specially
authorized vehiclesh with
wheelloadsa up to 11.5 t.

2.3
bearing slab (RC)
a slab with or without an aperture for valve/pipe
entry, used at the base of the chamber to provide
support for the walling structure
2.4

Chambers for use with

surface boxes suitable for use
m carnageways carrying

(medium) Grade B Chambers for use with

surface boxes capable of
bearing wheelloadsa up
to 5 t, for use in areas to
which vehicles would have
only occassional access.
(light) Grade Cl

Chambers for use with

surface boxes for use in
situations not intended for
use by vehicles.

(light) Grade C2

Chambers for use with

surface boxes capable of
bearing wheelloadsa up
to 1 t, for use in areas to
which vehicles would only
have occasional access.

The magnitude of the stated wheel load is as exerted by a

stationary vehicle.
hAs authorized by Statutory Instrument SI 1078 of 1986 of the
Roads Vehicles (Construction) Regulations.
a

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

4 Marking

Ill

Each GRP unit, concrete base section and adaptor

(.)
slab together with a minimum of 20 % of each
delivery batch of concrete wall sections shall be
>. clearly and indelibly marked with the following
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(.) information:
a) the number and date of this British Standard
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and the appropriate grade e.g. BS 5834-4:1988 A
or BS 5834-4:1988 Grade A 1f;
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b) the manufacturer's identification mark.
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c NOTE This does not preclude the use of adhesive labels or any

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c.6 Where sulphate resisting Portland cement has been

used all units shall be marked with the letter "S".

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Marking BS 5834-4 on or in relation to a product represents a manufacturer's declaration of conformity, i.e. a claim by or on
behalf of the manufacturer that the product meets the requirements of the standard. The accmacy of the claim is therefore solely
the responsibility of the person making the claim. Such a declaration is not to be confused with third party certification of
conformity, which may also be desirable.
l)

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

Section 2. Reinforced concrete units

(j)

5 Materials

Ill

5.1 Cement

..........

The cement used shall be one of the following:

Ordinary and rapid-hardening Portland cement
complying with BS 12
Ordinary and rapid-hardening Portland cement
complying with BS 12 when used in conjunction
with the following materials:
Ground granulated blastfurnace slag
complying with BS 6699
Pulverized-fuel ash complying with BS 3892-1
Portland blast-furnace cement complying with
BS 146-2
Sulphate resisting Portland cement complying
with BS 4027
Portland p.f.a. cement complying with BS 6588
5.2 Aggregates

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The aggregates shall comply with BS 882, BS 1047

orBS 3892-2 except that the gradings may be
modified to suit the manufacturing processes.
The maximum size of the aggregate shall not exceed
the least of the following:
a) 20 mm;
b) three-quarters of the minimum space between
reinforcing bars;
c) the nominal cover to the reinforcement
minus 5 mm.
5.3 Admixtures
Admixtures, where used, shall comply with
BS 5075.
5.4 Chloride content
The total chloride content of the concrete mix shall
not exceed the limits given in Table 1, expressed as
a percentage relationship between chloride ion and
mass of cement in the mix.

Table 1 - Maximum total chloride content

Type or use of concrete

Maximum total chloride

content expressed as
percentage of chloride
ion by mass of cement

H eat cured concrete

0.1

Concrete made with

cement complying with
BS 4027

0.2

Concrete containing
0.4
embedded metal and made
with cement complying
with BS 12, BS 146,
BS 6588 or combinations
with slag or p.f.a.
NOTE Marine aggregates and some inland aggregates
contain chlorides. Both should be selected carefully. Wherever
possible, the total chloride content should be calculated from
the mix proportions and the measured chloride content of each
of the constituents.

5.5 Reinforcement

All reinforcing steel used in concrete units shall

comply with BS 4449, BS 4482 or BS 4483 as
appropriate. Reinforcement shall be free from loose
rust, scale, oil, grease or other deleterious matter .
5.6 Cover to reinforcement

The concrete cover to the reinforcing steel shall be

not less than 20 mm.
5.7Water
Water shall be clean and free from harmful matter
in such quantities as would affect the properties of
the concrete in plastic or hardened state.
(Information on the suitability of water for making
concrete is contained in Appendix A of
BS 3148:1980.)

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BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

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Ill

6 Manufacture and workmanship

6.1 Minimum concrete grade

The concrete shall have a minimum characteristic

2
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6.2 Minimum cement content

The minimum cement content shall be 300 kg/m3

NOTE The pmchaser should state on his order or enquiry

whether sulphate resisting cement is r equired.

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S Concrete shall have a temperature of at least 5 C,

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which shall be maintained until the concrete has

hardened.
NOTE If required, aggregates and water may be heated before
mixing, to a temperature not exceeding 60 C.

~ Other materials and moulds, if at a temperature

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below 0 C, shall not be used. Concrete units shall

be protected from frost for at least 48 h after
casting.

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All units shall be compacted so that when hardened

they shall be free from honeycombing and from any
individual large (greater than 6 mm) void as defined
in 4.4.1 ofBS 1881-120:1983.

Any rounded or splayed corners shall not reduce the

related minimum chamber area in the horizontal
plane by more than 1600 mm2 at each corner for
chambers up to and including 430 mm x 280 mm
and 3 800 mm2 for larger sizes.

7.2 Bearing slabs

Bearing slabs shall have a minimum depth
of75 mm.
7.3 Bearing slab aperture sizes
Where apertures are provided in bearing slabs they
shall be as given in Table 3.
Table 3 - Bearing slab aperture sizes
Nominal chamber size

Aperture size

mm

mm

230
305
430

230
305
280

610

455

100 X 100
295 X 295
380 X 230
230 diameter
600 X 445

+ 10
NOTE The allowable tolerances for apertures are _ 0 mm.

The aperture shall be positioned centrally in the

bearing slab.

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Reinforced concrete units shall be free from burrs.
0

NOTE A 230 mm diameter aperture may be offset.

cci' 7 Design features and dimensions

Base wall sections shall have a depth

of 150 5 mm, 200 5 mm or 280 5 mm.
Base wall sections shall be supplied in either one or
two pieces.

c:~ 7.1 Chamber sizes

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230

230

305

305

380
430

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X

230
280

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610

455

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610

610

915

610

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Bearing slabs with circular apertures shall each be

supplied in two pieces (see Figure 1).
7.4 Base wall sections

7.5 Intermediate wall sections

Intermediate wall sections shall have a depth

of 75 5 mm, 100 5 mm, 150 5 mm,
200 5 mm or 300 5 mm.

7.6 Wall thickness

Wall thickness shall be 65 + ~ mm 75+6 mm
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or 100 ~~ mm.
7.7 Pipe slots
The sizes of slots, for units up to and
including 610 mm x 455 mm nominal internal size,
shall be given in Table 4.

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The allowable tolerances for internal length and

width are 6 mm up to and including 610 mm
and 10 mm over 610 mm.

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

Table 4 - Slot sizes in RC base wall units

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Depth of unit

Nominal width

Nominal height

mm

mm

mm

150
200
280

65
70
120

55
70
120

8 Design loading tests

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7.9 Joints
Joints shall be rebated joints in accordance
with Figure 2.

The tolerances on slot width and height shall

be +6 mm.
- 0
The slots shall be arranged on the vertical centre
lines of the two shorter sides and, in the case of
square chambers, on any two opposite sides.
The top of the slots shall either be semi-circular or
semi-hexagonal in elevation.
NOTE Other slot sizes and slots in larger units are acceptable
and may be agreed between the purchaser and the manufacturer.

7.8 Adaptor slabs

Adaptor slabs shall have a minimum depth
of100 mm.
Adaptor slabs shall have either a continuous flat
upper surface or shall be recessed to accept the
flange of the surface box. The depth of the recess
shall be 10 2 mm.
NOTE The purchaser should state in his enquiry/order whether
a flat or rebated mating surface is required and, if appropriate,
the size of the rebate.

8.1 Vertical loading tests on adaptor slabs

Design loading tests shall only be carried out on the
two adaptor slabs for which load values are specified
in Table 5.
When tested in accordance with Appendix B the
adaptor slabs shall not show cracks of width greater
than 0.15 mm on the under surface after the
removal of the test load.
8.2 Horizontal loading tests on intermediate
wall sections
Horizontal design loading tests shall only be carried
out on wall sections for chambers which have one
nominal internal dimension over 400 mm.
When tested in accordance with Appendix C wall
sections shall withstand a pressure of 85 kN/m2 .
NOTE The manufacturer should supply a copy of such test
records if requested by the purchaser.

8.3 Test sample specification criteria

Concrete: The 28 day characteristic strength shall
be not less than 30 N/mm 2 not greater
than 40 N/mm2 .
Reinforcement: Details of the reinforcement
incorporated in the test sample shall be recorded.

Each adaptor slab shall have a centrally positioned

clear opening of the size given in Table 5.
The allowable tolerances on clear openings
are +0 mm.
- 6
Table 5 - Clear opening sizes and design test loads for adaptor slabs

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Nominal internal
plan size of
chamber

Clear opening

mm

mm

230 X
305 X
380 X
430 X
430 X
430 X
610 X
610 X
915 X
915 X

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230
305
230
280
280
280
455
610
610
610

225 X
300 X
380 X
150 X
380 X
430 X
600 X
600 X
600 X
900 X

225
300
230
150
230
280
450
600
450
600

Design test load

Grade A orB

Grade Cl

kN

kN

NIA
NIA
NIA
262a
NIA
NIA
NIA
NIA
350
NIA

NIA
NIA
NIA
26.0b
NIA
NIA
NIA
NIA
35
NIA

Test plate size

Test block size

mm

mm

NIA
NIA
NIA
230 X 230
NIA
NIA
NIA
NIA
680 X 530
NIA

NIA
NIA
NIA
230 X 230
NIA
NIA
NIA
NIA
300 dia
NIA

Calculated from 350 X <230 x 230 )

70686

Calculated from35 x ( 230 x 23)

7 0686
(see Table 2 of BS 5834-2:1983)

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

9 Sampling tests

en Compliance with 6.1 shall be determined from sets

of concrete cubes made, cured and tested in

~ accordance with BS 1881-108, BS 1881-111 and
~ BS 1881-116.
0
() For each mix design, samples of freshly made
-o concrete shall be taken from not less than 2 % of the
a> total number of batches of concrete.
Sampling shall be at a rate of not less than one
sample per 20m3 offresh concrete taken daily.

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BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

Section 3. GRP units

(f)

CD

10 General

NOTE Hand finish is acceptable but sufficient resin should be

present to keep exposed fibres to a minimum.

The design and manufacture of GRP chambers shall

be proven by the manufacture and testing of a
prototype.
GRP units meeting the requirements of this
specification are for use in grade C.1 and C.2
situations.

12.2 Cut edges

NOTE Where adequate support is provided by selected backfill

GRP units may be acceptable for higher grade situations.

Typical GRP chambers are shown in Figure 3.

11 Materials
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11.1 Resin
General purpose polyester resins for the
manufacture of laminates shall comply with
BS 3532.
NOTE Pigments or dyes may be incorporated in the resin.

11.2 Glass fibre

Glass fibre chopped strand mat for the
reinforcement of polyester resin shall comply with
BS 3496.
Glass fibre rovings for the reinforcement of
polyester resin shall comply with BS 3691.
Woven glass fibre roving fabrics for the
reinforcement of polyester resin shall comply with
BS 3749.
Glass fibre woven fabrics for the reinforcement of
rigid plastics mouldings and laminates shall comply
with BS 3396.
11.3 Stiffening
Stiffening materials, where used within the
laminate, shall be such that deterioration of the
material cannot take place by the ingress of
moisture resulting in a reduction in the strength or
integrity of the product, e.g. closed cell foam, paper
rope, non-woven polyester fibre web, marine
plywood, steel.
Any such material shall be free from rust, scale, oil,
grease and other deleterious matter.

12 Manufacture and workmanship

12.1 Laminate
The laminate shall consist of a continuous, smooth
internal surface of resin gel-coat free from cracks
and foreign inclusions. The complete laminate shall
be made up to the required thickness with resin and
glass at a ratio by weight of between 2 : 1 and 3 : 1
respectively.
The exterior surface shall be free from sharp
projections.

BSI 09-1999

All cut edges shall be coated with resin so that no

glass fibres are exposed and all voids filled.
12.3 Stiffening material
When laminated the stiffening material shall be
completely covered by a minimum of 1 mm thick
laminate of tissue fmish and flo-coated to prevent
ingress of moisture.
The content of marine plywood within the
construction shall not exceed 10% (by weight of the
GRP component) and shall be completely coated
with resin before or during lamination.
NOTE It is essential that manufacturers' instructions are
followed with absorbent stiffener materials to ensure that
tlexural rigidity is attained by the correct amount of absorbed
resin.

13 Design features and dimensions

13.1 Chamber sizes
The range of sizes of chambers shall be as given
in Table 6.
Table 6- Chamber plan dimensions
Nominal chamber sizea

Clear opening

mm

mm

450 dia.
380 X 230
430 X 280
515 X 280
600 X 450

380
380
430
430
450

X
X
X
X
X

230
230
280
280
300

a Radius or splayed corners are permitted provided that the

total reduction on the nominal plan area is no greater
than 2.5 %.
NOTE GRP units may incorporate a taper to facilitate
manufacture or to enable a surface box complying with Parts 2
and 3 of this standard to be fitted. In such units the internal plan
dimensions should be not less than the nominal size in the
horizontal plane 450 mm below the top surface of the unit. The
clear opening in the top of the unit should be rectangular in plan
and should be not less than the dimensions given in Table 6.

13.2 Wall thickness

The measured wall thickness at any point shall be
not less than 2 mm after the laminate has been
consolidated by rolling and allowed to cure.
NOTE As the strength of GRP is greatly affected by geometry
and design, wall thickness will be controlled by design test loads.

13.3 Pipe openings

The minimum size of pipe openings, where
provided, shall be as given in Table 7.

BS 5834-4:1989

Table 7 - Minimum size of pipe opening

(j)

Ill

Nominal pipe size

Nominal width

Nominal height

mm

mm

mm

..........

Up to 32
50
63

65
90
110

65
90

llO

"0

J!2 In rectangular chambers the pipe openings shall be

o
arranged on the vertical centre line of the two
J=
c shorter sides. In circular chambers the pipe
8 openings shall be diametrically opposite.

<D
0
0
C\1
0
0
0

o
~

:2
CJ
<D
o

NOTE Oth er sizes of pipe openings and other positions are

acceptable and may be agreed between the purchaser and the
manufacturer.

14.1 General
GRP chambers shall be graded Cl or C2 and shall
satisfy the appropriate criteria both for resistance to
vertical load (see Table 8) and for stiffness
(see Table 9).
14.2 Vertical loads

construction or an assembly of parts, shall be tested

:;: in accordance with Appendix B, and shall resist the
o loads, specified in Table 8, without visible damage.
~ Where the design of the chamber is such that some
0
part(s) receive(s) no directly applied vertical load in
service, i.e. discounting loads transferred to the
:2 chamber through the surrounding soil etc., and
ci where such part(s) is/are separated from the rest of
c the assembly and then tested, the separately tested
c~ parts, whether from grade Cl or grade C2
chambers, shall only be required to support, without
a> visible damage, the grade Cl test load of 10 kN.
<D

-5

..c

NOTE Where appropriate, it is permissible for th e test plate to

be replaced by the surface inspection cover and frame which is
intended to provide service-access to the chamber.

::J

Table 8 - Vertical loads for GRP units

en
c

:g
Q)

Grade

tQ)

..c

en

0
()

"0

Grade

14 Design criteria

~ Chambers, whether they are of one-piece

1\3

14.3 Horizontal loads

Basewall sections, intermediate wall sections and
one piece chambers shall be tested in accordance
with 14.4 .
14.4 Initial specific stiffness
When tested in accordance with Appendix D, the
mean initial specific stiffness of the unit shall not be
less than the values given in Table 9 and there shall
be no visible cracking or delamination.
Table 9 - Classification of specific tangential
stiffness

Cl

Q)

en
c
Q)
.2

.....J

C2

Nominal
chamber size

Test plate
dimensions

Design load

mm

mm

kN

450 dia.
380 X 230
430 X 280
515 X 280
600 X 450

430
430
480
480
500

450 dia.
380 X 230
430 X 280
515 X 280
600 X 450

430
430
480
480
500

X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

280
280
330
330
350

10
10
10
10
10

280
280
330
330
350

35
35
35
35
35

C2
Cl

Minimum specific tangential initial

stiffness (STIS)
Circular units

Non-circular units

N/m2

N/m2

700
50

1500
700

14.5 Prototype recorded test data

The weight, wall thickness, general construction
and distribution of reinforcement and stiffener
material of the satisfactory prototype shall be
recorded.

15 Production tests
15.1 Visual inspection
Each GRP unit shall be inspected to ensure it
conforms to specification and is free from
delamination, cracks, resin starved areas and other
defects which would affect performance of the
chamber during transportation or in service
conditions.
15.2 Physical test
The weight and wall thickness of each unit shall be
checked. The weight shall be not less than 95 % of
the recorded data of the satisfactory prototype.

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

en
~

0
()
"'0
Q)

ec
0

(..)

:::J

""'0 "
(..)

Q)

0
c
0

cci"
c
c
~

::3

:g
Q)

tQ)
.!::
C/)

::3

:g
Q)

tQ)
.!::
C/)

..

0
()
"'0
Q)

C/)

c
Q)
.2
_J

Appendix A Optional items to be agreed between the manufacturer and the

purchaser
A.1 Information to be supplied by the purchaser with his enquiry and/or order
The purchaser should supply the following information with his enquiry and/or order:
a) Material required.
b) Chamber size required.
c) Type of unit required.
d) Size of slots or pipe openings.
e) Bearing slab aperture shape/size.
f) Grade of adaptor slab required (see clause 3).
g) Whether flat or rebated adaptor slab.
h) Clear opening size required.
i) Whether sulphate-resisting cement is required.
j) Whether the purchaser wishes to witness the tests (see A.2).
k) Whether a certificate of compliance with this standard is required (see A.3).
A.2 Inspection
When the purchaser wishes to inspect the manufacture and/or testing of the products, the manufacture
should afford all reasonable facilities and give reasonable notice of the date or dates when the tests
specified in clauses 10 and 17 will be carried out.
A.3 Certificate of compliance
If requested the manufacturer should supply the purchaser with a certificate in respect of each delivery
certifying that the articles comply with the requirements of this standard.

Appendix B Loading tests

B.1 Apparatus
B.1.1 A device for applying the load, preferably a hydraulic testing machine. The device shall be capable of
applying a load at least 25 % greater than the appropriate design load specified in Table 5 or Table 8. If a
testing machine is used it shall comply with the accuracy requirements for grade 1 or grade 2 testing
machines given in BS 1610:1985. If any other loading device is used it shall be accurate to within 2% of
the indicated load.
B.l.2 A rigid test plate, dimensions in accordance with Table 5 or Table 8, faced on the underside
with 25 mm thick rubber of hardness between 50 IRHD and 60 IRHD.
B.2 Procedure
B.2.1 Adaptor slabs
B.2.1.1 Uniformly support the adaptor slab on a rigid perimeter support having internal dimensions of the
appropriate chamber size and with a top surface equal to or greater than the appropriate chamber wall
thickness.
B.2.1.2 Apply the load to the upper surface of the adaptor slab through a rigid test plate as in the position
shown in Figure 4 .
B.2.2 GRP units
B.2.2.1 Separate those chamber parts which receive no vertical load in service from those that do, and
separately test the resulting assemblies.
B.2.2.2 Uniformly support the test specimen on a test bed with its axis vertical.
Where necessary, provide a restraint to prevent horizontal displacement of the test bed material.
B.2.2.3 Place the test-plate, or inspection cover and frame when appropriate, on the top of the specimen,
and position the load-applicator at the centre of the plate (or cover).
NOTE If a cover is used, the load-applicator should be faced with rubber, over its complete lower surface, of a thickness
between 10 mm and 25 mm and a hardness of between 50 and 60 IRHD.

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

B.2.3 Application of load

~ B.2.3.1 Apply the appropriate test-load progressively, without shock, to the applicator, within a total period
-.
of1 min.
(.)
_..
~ B.2.3.2 Sustain the test-load for at least 30 s, then remove and inspect the specimen for damage.
>-

0.. NOTE It is permissible for the specimen to be provided with such further support as would result in service, following installation
0
in accordance with the manufactmer's instructions. If those instructions specify the provision of a concrete collar, to provide
(.) circumferential/peripheral support to the top of the chamber, this may be simulated by placing a rigid steel collar, of the same depth
"0 as that specified for the concrete around the specimen provided that there is an all-round clearance, of at least 1 mm, between collar
J!2 and chamber.

0~
c

=:

B.3 Inspection
After removal of the load check the adaptor slab or GRP unit for any cracks or defects.
Measure the width of any residual cracks in the under-surface of adaptor slabs by means of a feeler
gauge, 0.15 mm thick and complying with the requirements of BS 957-2 (see Figure 4).

0
0
C\.1
0

Appendix C Crushing strength tests of reinforced concrete intermediate wall

sections

(.)

<.0

~ C.l Strength test

Test the sections using the apparatus described in C.2.

~ C.2 Apparatus
~
CJ C.2.1 The testing machine to be used for making the test shall have a device that will apply the load at a
<.0 uniform rate of about 30 kN per minor in increments of not more than 1.5 kN at the same rate.
0
en C.2.2 Ensure that the testing machine is substantial and rigid throughout, so that the distribution of the
~ load will not be affected appreciably by the deformation or yielding of any part. The bearing shall be as
~ specified in B.2.3 and located on the machine so as to receive and uniformly transmit the maximum loads
~ required in the tests without lost motion, vibrations, or sudden shock.
0
u C.2.3 The bearings shall consist of an upper member beam, and the lower member being a rigid beam or
<D base on which steel rollers are symmetrically disposed as shown in Figure 5.
0
c C.3 The loading method
0
~ C.3.1 Place the unit to be tested with its longest side positioned on two bearings as shown in Figure 5.
ctf C.3.2 Apply the load to the unit across its depth through the bearings on top of the unit.
c
~ C.3.3 Ensure the loading of the unit is a continuous operation.
c
::::1 C.3.4 Calculate and report the equivalent test load P (in kN) using the equation:
32
(!)

lE
(!)
.c
C/)

P=

(L + t) X d X 85
1.33

where

-g

Lis the internal length of chamber (in m);

t is the wall thickness of chamber (in m);
d is the depth as measured in Figure 2 (in m).

::::
(!)

.c
C/)

Appendix D Method for the determination of the initial specific stiffness of base
(.) wall sections for GRP chambers

15

D.l Apparatus

The apparatus shall consist of:

a) a loading frame with two rigid parallel plates or beams between which the test piece can be loaded.
For non-circular sections the bearers shall have a width not greater than 25 mm. When the outside of
the chamber has a change in cross-section and this is incorporated within the test piece the bearers shall
be shaped to accommodate this (see Figure 6). The centre of loading shall be so arranged that the vertical
deflection (in mm) at both ends of the test piece are the same.

C/)

(!)

-~
_J

10

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

(J)

Ill
~

:>.

0..
0
()
"0
Q)

c:
0

c:

:::>

""'0u"
Q)

Where the surface of the outside of the chamber does not provide a smooth bearing contact, the bearers
may be surfaced with a strip of elastomeric material (50 5 IRHD hardness) not less than 3 mm thick.
All bearers shall be not less than the length of the test piece.
b) means of measuring the length to an accuracy of 1% and the load and deflection to an accuracy
of 1 % in the direction of the load.
D.2 Test pieces
Each test piece shall be open at both ends and not less than 200 mm in length (or such length as is
necessary to maintain symmetry of section) and, if cut off, e.g. base removed, shall be cut smoothly and
perpendicular to the main axis.
D.3 Test conditions
Carry out the test at a temperature of 15 10 C.
D.4 Procedure
D.4.1 Assemble the test piece symmetrically in the test apparatus. The line ofloading and support for
non-circular sections shall be at the centre of the longest side.
D.4.2 Determine the datum for deflection at zero load.
D.4.3 Apply the load to obtain a deflection of 1 % to 7 %. If the test piece incorporates a change in
cross-section on the inside of the chamber the deflection shall be determined either i) on the smallest
internal diameter for a circular cross-section or ii) on the short side of the smallest cross-section for a
non-circular section.
Complete the test in not more than 6 minutes.
D.4.4 Repeat the test for two further similar test pieces.
D.5 Calculation
Calculate the initial specific stiffness STIS (in N/m2 ) from the following equation:
ST/S= 0.0186 x.f_x SF
L
y

c:
0

cci'

c:
c:
::3
:g

Q)

tQ)
..!::

where

F
L
Y
Sr,

is the arithmetic mean of the three loads (in N);

is the arithmetic mean of the three specimen lengths (in m);
is the arithmetic mean of the three deflections (in m);
is the "shape factor'':
for circular sections Sp = 1.0

C/)

c:
:g
::3

for rectangular sections SF= 0.56 x

Q)

tQ)
..!::
C/)

'

0
()
"0
Q)

C/)

2t + (42t

-.r3-

xs)}

- -{ 2s (2L + 2s)

where
ZL =length of long side (in m)
ls =length of short side (in m)
If the test piece incorporates a change in cross-section on the inside of the chamber the value of SF used
shall be the mean value of the factor for the maximum dimensions and that for the minimum dimensions.

c:
Q)

.2
_J

BSI 09-1999

11

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

al

>-

0.
0
()

"'0
Q)

0
J=
c::

:::
,<; ;. ':-

-~~:: :...

()

c::

:::)

:.

Bearing slab

~ ( ~~.~,~

...~~-~~~ :.:.:.. ~:

<.0
0
0
C\J
0
0
0
0

Base wall section

Usrng bearing slab

Using base wall section

(a) Sectional elevation

+
:2

1(9

<.0
0
('t)

~
<.0

Adaptor slab

,....

"<:t
0

()

Q)

Depths:

75 mm
100 mm
150mm
200mm
300mm

Depths:

150 mm
200mm
280mm

c::

:2

View from above

View from below

Intermediate wall section

~

c::
::g
::J
Q)

!E
Q)
..c::
en
c::
::J

::g
Q)

tQ)

Base wall section

..c::
en

0
()
"'0
Q)

en
c::
Q)
.2

Bearing slab

.....J

(b) Isometric views

Figure 1 -Typical concrete chamber units and arrangements

12

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

CD

+15

Female joint A - 0

>.

+15

c.

0
()
"'0
Q)

Female joint B-O

N
+I

c0
u

0
0
C\1
0

\
.

+I

-. .

thi~kness .' ~

... ..'

1\ . '
!

'o.

<>

Wall

; ::.

'L.
.

::::>
<!S

Length or width

I) 0
0

.
.

Ci
Ql

'

.. b

&

. ..
. ' 0

. . . Cl.

..0 d<>
.. l>
..

"

"0

.c

..

\I>

b
0

-?
0

'

'

... /,--b

+O

Male joint [- 20

0
0

tO

Male joint 0-20

:2
CJ

<0
0

Joint criteria table

(Y)

C\1
<0

..."<:t

Internal
length or
width

mm

:2
cri'
c

:::1

32
Q)

:t:
Q)
..c
(/')

:::1

32
Q)

Male maximum dimensions

Nominal wall thickness

Nominal wall thickness

65mm

u
Q)

Female minimum dimensions

230
280
305
380
430
455
610
915

.r~n

315
365
390
465
515
555
705
1000

75mm

I'BIJ

310
360
385
460
510
550
700
995

,~,

"B'"'

lOO mm
,~,

,~,

335
330
385
380
390
385
435
430
410
405
465
460
485
480
535
530
545
540
585
580
555
550
610
605
710
705
770
765
1020 1015 1070 1065

65mm

314
364
389
464
514
554
704
999

309
359
384
459
509
549
699
994

75mm

lOO mm

334
329
384
379
389
384
434
429
409
404
464
459
484 479
534
529
544
539
584
579
554
549
609
604
709
704
769
764
1019 1014 1069 1064

All dimensions are in millimetres.

:t:
Q)
..c

Figure 2 - Rebated joints for concrete units

(/')

()
"'0
Q)

(/')

c
Q)
.2
-'

BSI 09-1999

13

(f)

CD

~
0

Top surface section

-~

()

"C

CD

0......

(.)

:::::>
~

<0
0
0
C\1
0
0
0
0

+
......

:2
CJ

<0
0
(")

<;\!
<0
T""

"<:t
0

(.)

CD

0
c

'..........

'

(a) Rectangular two piece chamber

showing top surface and base wall

:2

sections
~

c
:::1
32

,.---. /

"-Base wall section__...

(b) Circular two piece chamber

showing top surface and base W;ttl
sections

CD

:t=
CD
.c.
Cl)
c

:::1

32
CD

::::CD

.c.
Cl)

0
()
"C

CD

Cl)

c
CD
.2
-'
(c) One piece chamber

Figure 3- Typical GRP chambers

14

BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

CD

H~dd;,." detail of male joint

~

>.

r;:. -= --

c.

0
()

,,,,

-- -- -

- -=(1
---

II

"'0
Q)

II
I(

'I

II
11

t~t

11

& _ __

::::>
<!S
0
0
C\1
0

Test block

,,

t'

c0

L,__

11

11
11

':::::::':

____ __ -:!J

Dimensions of feeler gauge for

measuring crack widths

load
plate

Test block

q
0
0

:2
CJ

<0
0
(Y)

C\1
<0

..."<:t
0

ry.- -:;_ -:::... -::...

Q)

c
0

:2
tU

-= == -= ..::.--- --- -- -=- -= = = --= -- - -- =(1

,------------,

l1
11

11
11

'I

11

11

11

Hidden detail of male joint

430 X 280 Adaptor slab with 150 X 150 clear opening

I
1

l1

::::l
Q)

:t::
Q)

Ir

I'

t
1
1
I

(I

.c
Cl)

-~

11

::::l

32

!b--=-=-= =

Q)

:t::
Q)
Cl)

........ ..

-- -

-1--=- -=--- -_--- -- ~ ...::=- =

/
Test block----{

.c

-H
,'-+--Test ptate
11

11
11

32

11

ll

=--_~

load
Test plate

V ////////////

0
()
"'0

////J

Q)
Cl)

Q)

.2
.....J

915 X 610 Adaptor slab with 600 X 450 clear opening

All dimensions are in millimetres.

Figure 4 - Loading positions for adaptor slabs

BSI 09-1999

15

0
.__.
f-'

>. m

a.
0

A-1

"'0
(],)

c:

e
c:
0

::::>

a- rig beam
b - steel roller
c - rig beam or base

L +t

<0
0
0
C\J
0

Test load

_I

=
Test load ( PJ

'

Loaded depth(d)
~>-------i

9.

0
0

1-

~
C)

<0
0

(")

C\J
<0

..-

Ads

fxvt'-

AO Ootio<>< '(D

'
1 ...

'

Nominal

II

I
f

'

_j

= =

rCentre of wall thickness

Section

A-A

.. I

Figure 5 - Testing arrangements for the crushing test for reinforced concrete sections

BS 5834-4:1989

(f)

Load applied to upper bearer

through clevit hinge arrangement

>.

a.

Elastomeric material \

0
()

- - - - Upper bearer

"'0
~

J::;

c:
0

()

c:

:::>
~

<.0
0
0
C\J
0
0
0
0

V)

I~

CJ

<.0
0
('/')

C\J
<.0

le

------ -----~

,...

NOTE Bearers may be surfaced with strip of elastomeric material.

-;t
0

- ..

()

:s:;; 25

Q)

0
c:
0

:2
~

c:

::I

32

Q)

I+=

Elastomeric material

Q)

..c:
Cl)
c:

::I

32

Typical se<:tion of upper bearer

Q)

!:::
Q)
..c:
Cl)

All dimensions are in millimetres.

Figure 6 - Typical loading arrangement for non-circular sections with variable cross section

0
()

"'0
Q)
Cl)

c:

Q)

-~
_J

BSI 09-1999

17

(J)

CD
~

>.

c..

0
(.)

"'0
Q)

......
c
0

{.)

::::>
~

<0
0

0
0

1-

:2
CJ
<0
0
Ct)

C\1
<0
.,....

-.:::t

{.)

Q)

:2
ctf
c
c
::I
::g
~

Q)

:t::
Q)
..c
CJ)

::I

::g
Q)

:t::
Q)
..c
CJ)

0
(.)

"'0
Q)
CJ)

c
Q)
.5::2
__J

18

blank

BS 5834-4:1989

Publications referred to
(f)

en

>.

0.
0
()
"0
~

0
.P
c
0

u
c
:J
~

(0

0
0
C\J
0
0
0
0

:2
CJ
(0

0
(V)

~
(0

.,....
-.::t

Q)

:2
~

c
:J
32
<1>

!E
Q)
..c
Cl)

:J

32
Q)

:t::
Q)
..c

BS 12, Specification for ordinary and rapid-hardening Portland cement.

BS 146, Specification for Portland-blastfurnace cement.
BS 146-2, Metric units.
BS 882, Specification for aggregates from natural sources for concrete.
BS 957, Specification for feeler gauges.
BS 957-2, Metric units.
BS 1047, Specification for air-cooled blastfurnace slag aggregate for use in construction.
BS 1610, Materials testing machines and force verification equipment.
BS 1610-1, Specification for the grading of the forces applied by materials testing machines.
BS 1610-2, Specification for the grading of equipment used for the verification of the forces applied by

materials testing machines.

BS 1881, Testing concrete.
BS 1881-108, Method for making test cubes from fresh concrete.
BS 1881-111, Method of normal curing of test specimens (20 C method).
BS 1881-116, Method for determination of compressive strength of concrete cubes.
BS 1881-120, Method for determination of the compressive strength of concrete cores.
BS 3148, Methods of test for water for making concrete (including notes on the suitability of the water).
BS 3396, Woven glass fibre fabrics for plastics reinforcement.
BS 3496, Specification forE glass fibre chopped strand mat for the reinforcement ofpolyester resin systems.
BS 3532, Specification for unsaturated polyester resin systems for low pressure fibre reinforced plastics.
BS 3691, Specification for glass fibre rovings for the reinforcement ofpolyester and of epoxide resin systems.
BS 3749, Specification for woven roving fabrics of E glass fibre for the reinforcement of polyester resin
systems.
BS 3892, Pulverized-fuel ash.
BS 3892-1, Specification for pulverized-fuel ash for use as a cementitious component in structural concrete.
BS 3892-2, Specification for pulverized-fuel ash for use in grouts and for miscellaneous uses in concrete.
BS 4027, Specification for sulphate-resisting Portland cement.
BS 4449, Specification for hot rolled steel bars for the reinforcement of concrete.
BS 4482, Specification for cold reduced steel wire for the reinforcement of concrete.
BS 4483, Specification for steel fabric for the reinforcement of concrete.
BS 5075, Concrete admixtures.
BS 5834, Surface boxes, guards and underground chambers for gas and waterworks purposes.
BS 5834-2, Specification for small surface boxes.
BS 5834-3, Specification for large surface boxes.
BS 6588, Specification for Portland pulverized-fuel ash content.
BS 6699, Specification for ground granulated blastfurnace slag for use with Portland cement.

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BSI 09-1999

BS 5834-4:
1989

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