What does the measurement of a pipe's external load refer to?

The measurement of a pipe's external load primarily refers to the pressure the pipe can withstand when it is buried underground due to the weight of the soil above, as well as any additional loads from traffic or other structures. Understanding the external load is critical for ensuring that the pipe will not deform or fail when it is installed in an underground environment.

When evaluating a pipe for a particular installation, engineers consider these external loads to select materials and designs that ensure structural integrity. The ability to withstand these loads without compromising safety is essential for the reliability of the water distribution system. Other factors such as the weight of the pipe itself, temperature tolerance, or water flow rate pertain to different aspects of pipe performance but do not directly address the external loads a pipe may encounter once it is installed.