PVC Type DB-100 Conduit – 20 mm (½″) | Direct Burial

PVC Type DB-100 Conduit – 20 mm (½″)

Heavy-Duty Direct Burial Electrical Conduit for KSA & Gulf Region

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Understanding DB-100 Direct Burial Classification

DB-100 is the strongest type of PVC direct burial conduits that is used for the highest strength category.

What is the significance of DB-100?

  • More robust walls than DB-60
  • Resist impacts better
  • Allow to be used in locations with high soil weight
  • The chance of getting damaged by accidental digging is less
  • Most of the time, they are used in underground electric installations where the quality is the highest.

In the GCC infrastructure projects, DB-100 conduits are preferred when the safety margins are higher, but the requirement for concrete encased systems is avoided.

Why PVC Is Ideal for Underground Conduits in the Gulf

In the Middle East region, Saudi Arabia, PVC is the most reliable material to be used for underground electrical conduits, as its performance is unparalleled:

Corrosion Resistance

PVC remains unaffected by the factors mentioned above, such as saline, alkaline, or chemically aggressive soils, that usually kill other materials in coastal and desert areas.

Thermal Stability

It retains its structural strength even when subjected to high ambient and soil temperatures.

Lightweight & Easy Handling

Installation time, labor cost, and equipment required are reduced.

Electrical Insulation

PVC, being a non-conductor, offers the highest level of electrical safety.

Long Service Life

With little upkeep, it can give 30–50 years of dependable performance.

Standards & Compliance

The PVC Type DB-100 Conduit – 20 mm is manufactured in accordance with recognized international standards:

  • ASTM D1785 / ASTM D2241 – Rigid PVC conduit standards

  • NEMA TC-6 & TC-8 – Electrical PVC conduit requirements

  • IEC 61386 – International conduit systems standard

  • UL 651 / ETL (optional) – Electrical safety certification

These standards ensure consistent quality, strength, and compliance for use in GCC infrastructure projects.

Technical Specifications – DB-100 20 mm Conduit

SpecificationDetails
Nominal Diameter20 mm (½″)
MaterialRigid PVC
Conduit TypeDB-100 (Direct Burial, Heavy Wall)
InstallationDirect burial (no encasement)
Standard Lengths2 m, 3 m, 6 m
Joint TypeSolvent weld / mechanical coupling
Operating Temperature−10°C to +60°C
ColorGrey (custom colors available)
StandardsASTM, NEMA, IEC
Expected Service Life30–50 years

Key Features & Performance Advantages

  • Heavy-wall construction (DB-100) provides enhanced protection
  • Outstanding impact and crushing resistance
  • Easy cable pulling through smooth internal bore
  • Protection against moisture, chemicals, and soil contaminants
  • Non-conductive and safe for electricity
  • Strong structurally but lightweight
  • Buried directly without concrete is the design

Typical Applications

Residential Infrastructure

  • Underground power supply lines

  • Outdoor lighting systems

  • Home utility connections

Commercial Projects

  • Shopping centers and office complexes

  • Parking areas and landscaped zones

Industrial Facilities

  • Control wiring

  • Instrumentation and signaling cables

Telecom & Data

  • Communication cables

  • Low-capacity fiber optic installations

Municipal & Utility Projects

  • Street lighting networks

  • Public infrastructure cabling

How DB-100 Direct Burial Systems Work

DB-100 conduits installed straight in the earth give protection for wires and at the same time, provide advantages in terms of flexibility and cost over using concrete encased duct banks.

  • System Benefits
  • Quicker installation
  • Less digging and cheaper materials
  • Facilitation of cable replacement or upgrading
  • Secure mechanical protection

Installation Method – Step by Step

  • Trench excavation to required depth

  • Soil preparation and removal of sharp objects

  • Optional sand bedding for additional protection

  • Placement of DB-100 conduit

  • Jointing using solvent cement or couplers

  • Cable pulling after conduit placement

  • Backfilling and compaction

  • Warning tape installation (recommended)

Design Considerations for KSA & Gulf Region

  • High soil temperature
  • Conditions of sandy and saline soil
  • Moderate surface loads
  • Accidental digging protection
  • Local authority guidelines adherence

Where extra mechanical strength is needed, the DB-100 conduits and duct banks are the most economical solution.

Accessories & Fittings

  • Solvent weld couplers

  • Mechanical repair couplings

  • Long-radius bends

  • Pulling eye fittings

  • Warning tapes and marker mesh

Performance in Harsh Soil & Climate Conditions

  • Tolerant to desert high temperature and UV exposure
  • Performs well in coastal saline environment
  • Keeps its form under soil movements
  • Not deteriorated by moisture

Maintenance & Inspection

PVC DB-100 conduits require minimal maintenance:

  • Visual inspection during excavation work

  • Verification of conduit integrity during cable upgrades

  • Documentation of conduit routes

Cost Efficiency & Lifecycle Benefits

  • Lower installation cost than concrete-encased systems
  • Reduced cable damage risk
  • Long service life with minimal repairs
  • Excellent return on investment

Comparison: DB-100 vs DB-60 vs Other Conduits

FeatureDB-100 PVCDB-60 PVCStandard PVCSteel
Wall ThicknessHighMediumLowVery High
Direct BurialYesYesLimitedYes
Corrosion ResistanceExcellentExcellentGoodPoor
Installation CostLowVery LowLowHigh
Lifecycle CostLowLowMediumHigh

Conclusion

The PVC Type DB-100 Conduit – 20 mm (½″) | Direct Burial is a widely chosen solution for underground electrical and communication cabling in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf area due to its very strong and economical nature. The reason for this is the heavy-wall structure it possesses which can withstand corrosion, the long service life, and the very easy installation that make it the best option for jobs that need extra protection without concrete encasement.

The DB-100 20 mm PVC conduit offers performance, safety, and value over the entire spectrum of residential, commercial, and industrial applications, making it a conduit that is not only reliable but also very futuristic for direct burial installation.

Frequently Asked Questions About PVC Type DB-100 Conduit – 20 mm (½″) | Direct Burial

1. What is PVC Type DB-100 Conduit used for?
It is used for direct burial protection of underground electrical and telecom cables.

 

2. How is DB-100 different from DB-60?
DB-100 has thicker walls and higher impact resistance.

 

3. Can DB-100 be buried without concrete?
Yes, it is designed for direct burial applications.

 

4. Is it suitable for Gulf climates?
Yes, it withstands high temperatures and saline soils.

 

5. Can it protect fiber optic cables?
Yes, for low-capacity fiber installations.

 

6. What is the service life of DB-100 conduit?
Typically 30–50 years.

 

7. Is PVC DB-100 electrically safe?
Yes, PVC is non-conductive.

 

8. Can it be used in residential projects?
Yes, widely used in homes and housing developments.

 

9. Does it require maintenance?
Minimal maintenance is required.

 

10. Is it approved for GCC infrastructure projects?
Yes, when manufactured to ASTM, NEMA, and IEC standards.