PVC Conduit and Frost Line

Status
Not open for further replies.

dasarmin

Member
Location
Texas
I'm involved in a project in MN, that will be require direct burial of Sch 80 PVC. The Frost Line in the area is 54", other than the vertical transitions into and out of the ground. Will the PVC conduit have to be buried below the Frost Line?
I find a few references in the NEC about expansion characteristics of conduits in the ground, but nothing that specifically says it has to be below the Frost Line.
I'm also checking the local authorities.
 

infinity

Moderator
Staff member
Location
New Jersey
Occupation
Journeyman Electrician
Nothing in the NEC requires that it be buried according to the frost line. If it had water running through it then it would be a concern.
 

don_resqcapt19

Moderator
Staff member
Location
Illinois
Occupation
retired electrician
If it is PVC I have no issues with it being installed above the frost line. There is no code rule, but I don't like to see rigid or concrete encased PCV above the frost line. I have replaced conductors and fiber optic that were damaged from the crushing force of the water when it turns into ice where there is no "give" in the raceway.
 

MyCleveland

Senior Member
Location
Cleveland, Ohio
Same discussion with PVC factory reps years ago.
My understanding was "BELOW" frost line or "Concrete Encase".
Not sure which company sent me the NEMA document.
 

Attachments

  • PVC.jpg
    PVC.jpg
    6.6 KB · Views: 48
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top