Bending Radius Check
Checks whether a planned bending radius for PE pipes is within the allowable range.
Notice: This quick check is for orientation purposes only. The results do not replace a project-specific design. Dimensioning and approval are the responsibility of the responsible engineering office. All information without guarantee. Full Disclaimer
Fundamentals
The minimum bending radius for PE pipelines depends on the outside diameter, wall thickness (SDR), installation method, material and pipe temperature:
$$R_{min} = k_{Base} \times k_{SDR} \times k_{Mat} \times k_T \times d_e$$
Where $k_{Base}$ is a method-dependent base factor, $k_{SDR}$ the SDR correction, $k_{Mat}$ the material correction, $k_T$ the temperature correction and $d_e$ the outside diameter.
| Method | Typical factor (SDR 11, PE-100, 20 °C) |
|---|---|
| Open trench (cold) | ~35 × dₑ |
| Open trench (warm) | ~20 × dₑ |
| HDD / Trenchless | ~25 × dₑ |
Thicker walls (lower SDR) allow tighter radii; thinner walls require larger radii.
Material influence (k_Mat):
| Material | k_Mat | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| PE-100 | 1.00 | Reference material (MRS 10 MPa) |
| PE-80 | 1.15 | Lower MRS (8 MPa) → larger R_min required (DVS 2210-1 / ISO 4427) |
| PE-RT | 0.85 | Designed for flexibility → tighter radii possible (AGRU, Röchling) |
Frost warning: Below 0 °C, DVS 2210 recommends special measures (pre-heating or installation at higher temperatures).
Note: Engineering pre-dimensioning per DVS 2210 / DVGW W 400-2 / ISO 4427 / manufacturer data. Project-specific verification required for approval.
All data provided without warranty. Full disclaimer