Pipe sleeves are extensively used in the construction industry. Sleeves are cylindrical steel or plastic elements inserted in concrete slabs or walls. Pipe sleeves are crucial when it comes to production of concrete slabs. They can be used effectively to protect pipes and other utility lines that run from getting damaged. They are also helpful in sealing and insulating the pipes to prevent any damages.
Pipe sleeves are used in residential as well as commercial projects. The residual projects are simple. But when it comes to commercial projects, they require excellent craftsmanship because the problems of pipelines become complex. Moreover, the retail pipe sleeve requires great calculations and consideration of several factors. Every commercial project has different needs to accommodate.
Almost every household and non-household has sleeves installed in its pipelines. Sleeves are more significant than pipes. Extra space is always left for pipe sleeves when a line is established.
Why is a Pipe Sleeve Essential to Use?
Pipe sleeve helps in preventing damages
The main reason to use pipe sleeves is its ability to prevent any kind of damage. It’s easy for pipes to get damaged if not protected by pipe sleeves. The slab is so strong that it can break or crush the pipes, causing leakages and other damages. This can cause a huge problem and it may require spending extra money on repairing the damages.
Supporting concrete slabs
Pipe sleeves act as a base for concrete slabs. They are usually placed on to the ground before pouring concrete and they serve as a guide for the slab to be poured around. This makes sure that the slab is poured evenly which can help in preventing damages in future.
Simple and cost friendly installation
The installation of pipe sleeves is easy and cost Friendly. Pipe sleeves are a cost effective solution for the protection of pipes and other utility lines in concrete slabs. Pipe sleeves can be added before or after the slab is poured. Pipe sleeves are added after the slab is poured by making a hole into the concrete and then installing the sleeve.
Types of pipes sleeves
There are different types of sleeves available for various purposes. Floor sleeves are classified into three types, which are discussed further below.
Square sleeves
This sleeve is used in concrete slabs to provide an exit for a multi pipe installation for subsequent H.V.A.C. equipment. Heat pipes are one example. Installation of square sleeves is done before adding concrete material to the fitting. After pouring the concrete, the sleeves are removed.
Round sleeves
The round pipe sleeve is used for the water pipe, gas lines, drain pipes, etc. It is inserted before the addition of concrete material and then removed from the floor, which creates a gap for the tube.
Chimney sleeves
Chimney sleeves are also metallic sleeves used for exhaust openings on the floor. These sleeves are installed the same way as others and then filled with concrete material. After setting the concrete mixture, these are removed from the bottom to create a passage for the pipe.
Uses of Pipe Sleeves
Insulation
The primary purpose of sleeves is to protect the pipeline from the external environment. Often, cold or hot material travels through the pipe. It is essential to keep the pipe at an average temperature. Sleeves act as insulation when a pipe expands or contracts due to a natural cycle or other reasons and create protection. This insulation gives the pipe freedom to expand while preventing it from bursting when it does.
Fire protection
It is employed for pipe protection and fire suppression. It needs detailed instructions, including what kind of material should be utilized. The sleeves’ thickness or sizes should match the pipe’s specifications.
Protection from water dripping
When a sleeve is inserted around a water pipe of the sewer system, it creates a good seal on the floor. It prevents bad sewer smell from coming out of the pipe and travelling to the whole house.
Benefits of Pipe Sleeve for Concrete Slab
The pipe sleeve offers the following benefits:
- It is the most affordable method of increasing line penetration. It is used to prevent wires from sustaining damage.
- It prevents chemical or water spills from reaching the pipe’s bottom deck.
- It acts as a strengthening factor when penetrating walls.
- It protects against the spread of fire from one room to another.
- It keeps the bad odour from travelling through space.
Conclusion
Pipe sleeves are commonly used in residential and commercial projects. The pipe sleeve is used for penetration or insulation purposes and comes with comprehensive project requirements drawings. Using pipe sleeves is the best way to ensure the longevity of the concrete slabs and the pipes that run under it. They are the cheapest solution to protect and save pipelines in the event of expansion or penetration. It is essential to hire an experienced expert to complete your task. After all, superb sleeves and artistry guarantee the quality of the project.