Form NCR 102
Form NCR 102
Form NCR 102
SPECIFICATIONS
FOR
PIPELINE OCCUPANCY OF
NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD COMPANY PROPERTY
Revised
February 2017
North Carolina Railroad Company
INDEX
Section Title Page No.
1.0 General ................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Scope................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Definitions .......................................................................................................................... 4
1.3 Application for Occupancy ................................................................................................. 4
1.4 Right of Entry ..................................................................................................................... 5
1.5 Site Inspection..................................................................................................................... 5
1.6 Information Required for Submission ................................................................................ 6
1.7 Notification to Proceed with Construction.......................................................................... 7
2.0 General Requirements......................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Use of a Casing Pipe ........................................................................................................... 8
2.2 Location of Pipeline on the Right-of-Way.......................................................................... 8
2.3 Depth of Installation ........................................................................................................... 9
2.4 Pipelines at Public or Private Road Crossings .................................................................... 9
2.5 Modifications of Existing Facilities .................................................................................. 10
2.6 Abandoned Facilities ........................................................................................................ 10
2.7 Conflicts of Specifications ................................................................................................ 10
2.8 Insulation .......................................................................................................................... 10
2.9 Corrosion Protection and Petroleum Leak Prevention...................................................... 10
3.0 Soil Investigation .............................................................................................................. 10
3.1 General .............................................................................................................................. 10
3.2 Location ............................................................................................................................ 11
3.3 Sampling ........................................................................................................................... 11
3.4 Boring Logs ...................................................................................................................... 11
3.5 Additional Information ..................................................................................................... 11
4.0 Design Requirements ........................................................................................................ 12
4.1 Design Loads .................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Design Assumptions ......................................................................................................... 13
4.3 Casing Pipe ....................................................................................................................... 14
4.4 Carrier Pipe ....................................................................................................................... 18
4.5 Casing Pipe End Seals ...................................................................................................... 20
4.6 Vents ................................................................................................................................. 20
4.7 Signs ................................................................................................................................. 20
4.8 Warning Tape ................................................................................................................... 21
4.9 Shut-off Valves ................................................................................................................. 21
4.10 Cathodic Protection........................................................................................................... 21
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North Carolina Railroad Company
4.11 Manholes........................................................................................................................... 21
4.12 Box Culverts ..................................................................................................................... 22
4.13 Drainage ............................................................................................................................ 22
4.14 Pipelines on Bridges ......................................................................................................... 22
5.0 Construction Requirements............................................................................................... 23
5.1 Method of Installation ....................................................................................................... 23
5.2 Grouting ............................................................................................................................ 27
5.3 Soil Stabilization ............................................................................................................... 27
5.4 Dewatering ........................................................................................................................ 28
5.5 Safety Requirements ......................................................................................................... 28
5.6 Blasting ............................................................................................................................. 28
5.7 Temporary Track Supports ............................................................................................... 28
5.8 Protection of Drainage Facilities ...................................................................................... 29
5.9 Support of Excavation Adjacent to Track ......................................................................... 29
5.10 Inspection and Testing ...................................................................................................... 30
5.11 Reimbursement of Costs ................................................................................................... 30
APPENDIX
Title Page No.
Plate I Pipe Data Sheet ........................................................................................................... 31
Plate II Plan View of Drawings when Facility is a Crossing ................................................... 32
Plate III Pipeline Crossing ........................................................................................................ 33
Plate IV Longitudinal Occupancy ............................................................................................. 34
Plate V Longitudinal Occupancy ............................................................................................. 35
Plate VI Pipeline in Highway Under Railroad Bridge .............................................................. 36
Plate VII Pipeline on Highway Bridge Over Railroad................................................................ 37
Plate VIII Test Boring Log .......................................................................................................... 38
Plate IX Lateral Pressure Diagram ............................................................................................ 39
Plate X Sample Weatherproof Sign .......................................................................................... 40
Plate XI Example Plan View for Pipeline .................................................................................. 41
Plate XII Example Profile View for Pipeline ............................................................................. 42
1.0 General
1.1 Scope
A. This specification shall apply to the design and construction of pipelines carrying either
flammable or non-flammable substances and casings containing either wires and/or cables
across and along North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) property and facilities. This
specification shall also apply to tracks owned by others (sidings, industry tracks, etc.)
connected to NCRR and used by the Operating Railroad.
B. It is to be clearly understood that NCRR owns its right-of-way for the primary purpose of
railroad operations. All occupancies shall therefore be designed and constructed so that
operations and facilities are not interfered with, interrupted or endangered. In addition, the
proposed facility shall be located to minimize encumbrance to the right-of-way so that
railroad will have unrestricted use of its property for current and future operations.
1.2 Definitions
A. NCRR North Carolina Railroad Company
B. Operating Railroad A railroad company designated by NCRR to operate trains
on its property. Currently, Norfolk Southern Corporation
(NS), and in some places CSX Transportation (CSXT).
C. Engineering Representative Person or persons designated by NCRR to review and
approve plans for pipeline occupancies of its property.
Currently HNTB North Carolina, P.C.
D. Owner (Applicant) Individual, corporation, municipality desiring occupancy of
NCRR property.
E. Professional Engineer Engineer licensed in North Carolina
F. Casing Pipe Pipe through which the carrier pipe is installed.
G. Sidings or industry tracks Tracks located off NCRR’s right-of-way, serving an
industry.
1.3 Application for Occupancy
A. Corporations or municipalities desiring occupancy of NCRR property by pipeline
occupations must agree, upon approval of the engineering and construction details by the
Engineering Representative, to execute an appropriate NCRR utility occupancy agreement
and pay any required fees and/or rentals specified therein. Applications will be accepted
from the Owner or his designated representative, herein after referred to as the Applicant.
B. The application for an occupancy shall be by application addressed to the Engineering
Representative, HNTB North Carolina, P.C., 343 East Six Forks Road, Suite 200, Raleigh,
North Carolina 27609, attn. Manager, NCRR Pipes and Wires Occupancy Agreement
Process. Provide information requested on the Application Forms including the following:
1. Full name of Owner.
2. Complete mailing address of the applicant.
3. Name and title of person who will sign the agreement.
4. Name of representative or contact person who will handle the request.
5. The State in which the applicant is incorporated.
C. Applications shall only be made on the forms provided by the North Carolina Railroad.
Contact the Engineering Representative at the above address for instructions, forms and
further information. Application forms, instructions and specifications may also be
obtained on the NCRR website (http://www.ncrr.com/corridor-access/best-practices-for-
utilities/).
D. All applications for the proposed occupancy shall be submitted in three (3) copies.
Applications shall be accompanied with three (3) copies of all design and construction
plans and three (3) copies of all specifications and engineering computations for the
proposed occupancy. On extensive projects, only those plans involving work on, or
affecting NCRR property and operations, shall be submitted. Included shall be a plan
showing the extent of the total project upon which that portion of the work affecting NCRR
is clearly defined.
E. All of the above plans, specifications and computations must be prepared by and bear the
seal of a Professional Engineer registered in the State of North Carolina.
1.4 Right of Entry
A. No entry upon NCRR property for the purpose of conducting surveys, field inspections,
obtaining soils information or any other purposes associated with the design and
construction for the proposed occupancy, will be permitted without a proper right of entry
permit prepared and issued by the North Carolina Railroad Company. The applicant must
furnish required insurances, pay the associated fees, if any, and execute the right of entry
permit.
B. It is to be clearly understood that the issuance of a right of entry permit does not constitute
authority to proceed with any construction. Construction cannot begin until a formal utility
occupancy agreement is executed by NCRR, the Operating Railroad and Owner; and the
Owner then receives permission from the Engineering Representative to proceed with the
work.
1.5 Site Inspection
A. For longitudinal occupancy of NCRR property a site inspection along the proposed wire,
cable or conduit route may be required before final design plans are prepared. When a site
inspection is required, the applicant and/or his engineer must meet with the Engineering
Representative to view the entire length of the proposed occupancy.
B. Prior to the site inspection the applicant must submit the following information:
1. A plan view of the proposed route showing all tracks, both NCRR right-of-way lines
and all other facilities located on the right-of-way. The distance from the proposed
pipeline to both the adjacent track and the right-of-way lines must be shown.
2. A complete "Pipe Data Sheet". (See Plate I)
3. Typical cross sections along the proposed route. (See Plate V)
C. Site inspections for pipe crossings are not required unless, in the opinion of the Engineering
Representative, the size and location of the facility warrant an inspection.
10. The following note shall be included on all plan and profile sheets:
All work on NCRR Right of Way to be performed in accordance with North
Carolina Railroad Specifications NCR 101 “Specifications for Wire, Conduit
and Cable Occupations of North Carolina Railroad Company Property”,
NCR 102 “Specifications for Pipeline Occupancy of North Carolina
Railroad Property” and “North Carolina Railroad / Norfolk Southern
Railway – Special Provisions for Protection of Railway Interests (Current
version)”.
If the occupancy application is for a pipeline occupancy only, reference to NCR
101 can be omitted.
11. A cross section of the pipeline shall be included on the plan view drawing. The
cross section shall show the carrier pipe, casing pipe and any supports.
D. For all installations on NCRR property and under tracks that are not owned NCRR
but are used by the operating railroad (i.e. private industry tracks), the plans shall be
prepared to the same requirements as if the tracks were owned by NCRR.
E. These items cannot have an alternative and any application that is received that
indicates options in any of the above items will not be processed.
F. Once the application has been approved by the Engineering Representative, no
variance from the approved plans, specifications, method of installation, construction,
etc., will be considered or permitted without the payment to the Engineering
Representative of additional fees for the re-processing and review of the application.
Revisions to the approved plans may also impact the utility occupancy license fee.
G. All plans and computations associated with the work under the agreement shall be
prepared by, and bear the seal of, a Professional Engineer. If not so imprinted, the
application will be given no further consideration. This requirement also applies to all
data submitted by the Owner's contractor. Contractor's plans and computations that
are not stamped will be returned and construction will not be permitted to proceed.
1.6.2 Specifications
A. Project specifications for all work on and affecting the railroad right-of-way, shall be
included with the submission. All pertinent requirements of this document shall be
included.
1.7 Notification to Proceed with Construction
A. After approval of the engineering plans and specifications and execution of the Occupancy
Agreement, the Owner will be notified of the appropriate Operating Railroad office/contact
person that must be contacted prior to start of construction. The Operating Railroad will
provide inspection of the project and coordinate all other construction aspects of the project
that relate to railroad operations (flagging, track work, protection of signal cables, etc.).
B. The scheduling of work is subject to the availability of Operating Railroad force account
support. The Owner shall coordinate with the Operating Railroad for scheduling of work on
the NCRR right of way. No work shall be performed without the approval of the Operating
Railroad. Typically, the Operating Railroad must be notified a minimum of seventy-two
(72) hours prior to desired start of construction.
Horizontal Directional Drilling under track(s). (See Section 1.4 of this specification
relative the right-of-entry procedures)
C. Test borings or other soil investigations, approved by the Engineering Representative, may
be required when, in the judgment of the Engineering Representative, they are necessary to
determine the adequacy of the design and construction of pipe crossings less than 60 inches
in diameter and for other facilities located on the right-of-way.
3.2 Location
A. Borings shall be made on each side of the track(s), on the centerline of the pipe crossing,
and as close to the track(s) as practicable. (See Section 1.4 of this specification relative to
procedures)
B. Test boring logs shall be accompanied with a plan, drawn to scale, showing the location of
the borings in relation to the track(s) and the proposed pipe.
3.3 Sampling
A. Test borings shall be made in accordance with current ASTM Designation D 1586 except
that sampling must be continuous from the ground surface to 5 feet below the proposed
invert unless rock is encountered before this depth. Where rock is encountered, it is to be
cored using a Series "M" Double Tube Core Barrel, with a diamond bit, capable of
retrieving a rock core at least 1 5/8" in diameter. Individual core runs are not to exceed 5
feet in length.
3.4 Boring Logs
A. Test boring logs shall comply with Plate VIII and clearly indicate all of the following:
1. Boring number as shown on the required boring location plan.
2. Ground elevation at each boring using same datum as the pipeline construction plans.
3. Engineering description of soils or rock encountered.
4. Depth and percent recovery of all soil samples.
5. Depth from surface for each change in strata.
6. Blows for each 6 inches of penetration for the standard penetration test as described in
ASTM D 1586. Blows for lesser penetrations should be recorded.
7. Percent recovery and Rock Quality Designation (RQD) for all rock cores.
8. Depth to ground water while sampling and when it has stabilized in the bore hole.
B. The location of the carrier pipe and/or casing pipe shall be superimposed on the boring logs
before submission to the Engineering Representative.
C. All borings shall be sealed, for their full depth, with a 4-3-1 bentonite-cement-sand grout
after accurate ground water readings have been taken and recorded.
D. Soil samples taken from auger vanes or return wash water are not acceptable.
3.5 Additional Information
A. When directed by the Engineering Representative, additional borings may be required for
the purpose of taking undisturbed thin-wall piston samples or Dennison type samples for
laboratory testing to determine the index and engineering properties of certain soil strata.
H. Like commodities may be located in the same encasement pipe. However, do not
place flammable and non-flammable substances in the same encasement pipe.
Neither shall encasement pipes contain combinations of drinking water and sewer
pipes nor shall they contain wire lines with liquids or gasses in the same encasement
pipe.
4.3.2 Steel Pipe
A. Steel pipe may be installed by open cut, boring, jacking or other method approved by
the Engineering Representative.
B. Steel pipe shall have a specified minimum yield strength, SMYS, of at least 35,000
psi. The ASTM or API specification and grade for the pipe are to be shown on the
Pipe Data Sheet (Plate I).
C. Joints between the sections of pipe shall be fully welded around the complete
circumference of the pipe.
D. Steel casing pipe, with a minimum cover of 5½ ft., shall have a minimum wall
thickness as shown in Table 2, unless computations indicate that a thicker wall is
required.
E. Coated steel pipe that is bored or jacked into place shall conform to the wall
thickness requirements for uncoated steel pipe since the coating may be damaged
during installation.
F. Smooth wall steel pipes with a nominal diameter over 72 inches will not be
permitted.
Coated or
Uncoated and
Cathodically
Unprotected
Protected
Nominal Wall Nominal Wall
Pipe Diameter (in)
Thickness (in) Thickness (in)
10 and under 0.188 0.188
12 & 14 0.188 0.250
16 0.219 0.281
18 0.250 0.312
20 & 22 0.281 0.344
24 0.312 0.375
26 0.344 0.406
28 0.375 0.438
30 0.406 0.469
32 0.438 0.500
34 & 36 0.469 0.532
38 0.500 0.562
40 0.531 0.594
42 0.562 0.625
44 & 46 0.594 0.657
48 0.625 0.688
50 0.656 0.719
52 0.688 0.750
54 0.719 0.781
56 & 58 0.750 0.812
60 0.781 0.844
62 0.812 0.875
64 0.844 0.906
66 & 68 0.875 0.938
79 0.906 0.969
72 0.938 1.000
4.3.4 Corrugated Steel Pipe and Corrugated Structural Steel Plate Pipe
A. Corrugated steel pipe and corrugated structural steel plate pipe may be used for a
casing only when placed by the open cut method. Jacking or boring through the
railroad embankment is not permitted.
B. Corrugated steel pipe and corrugated structural steel plate pipe may be used for a
casing provided the pressure in the carrier pipe is less than 100 psi.
C. Pipe shall be bituminous coated and shall conform to the current American Railway
Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association Specifications Chapter 1, Part 4.
D. Corrugated steel pipe shall have a minimum sheet thickness as shown in Table 4.
Corrugated structural steel plate pipe shall have a minimum plate thickness of 8 gage,
0.168 in. If computations indicate that a greater thickness is required, the thicker
sheet or plate shall be used.
Table 4 – Minimum Wall Thickness for Corrugated Steel Pipes
Sheet Thickness
Pipe Diameter (in)
Gage Inches
12 to 30 14 0.079
36 12 0.109
42 to 54 10 0.138
60 to 120 8 0.168
B. Tunnel liner plates shall be galvanized and bituminous coated and shall conform to
current American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association
Specification Chapter 1, Part 4, Section 4.16. If the tunnel liner plates are used only
to maintain a tunneled opening until the carrier pipe is installed, and the annular
space between the carrier pipe and the tunnel liner is completely filled with cement
grout within a reasonably short time after completion of the tunnel, then the tunnel
liner plates need not be galvanized and coated.
C. Tunnel liner plates are to be a minimum of 12 gage and shall be fabricated from
structural quality, hot-rolled, carbon-steel sheets or plates conforming to ASTM
Specification A 569.
D. The following liner plate information must be shown on the Pipe Data Sheet (Plate I):
1. Number of flanges (2 or 4)
2. Width of plate
3. Type of plate (smooth or corrugated)
4.3.6 Concrete Encasement
A. At locations where the installation is by open cut and a casing pipe is required, but
cannot be installed due to elbows or other obstructions, concrete encasement may be
used when approved by the Engineering Representative.
B. The concrete encasement must provide a minimum cover of 6 inches of concrete
around the pipe. A 6 x 6 - W 2.9 x W 2.9 welded wire fabric shall be placed in the
concrete on all sides.
4.3.7 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Conduits
A. HDPE conduits may be installed only at a depth greater than 15’ below the top of
rail.
B. HDPE conduits shall be installed by Directional Boring Method “B” as detailed in
Section 5.1.6 of this specification.
C. HDPE (Directional Bore) conduits may only be used for underground telecom and
power conduits 6” in diameter or less.
D. Conduit diameter and wall thickness ratio shall conform to Standard Dimension Ratio
SDR-12 or greater.
4.3.8 Reinforced Concrete Pipe (RCP)
A. RCP may be installed at locations approved by the Engineering Representative only.
4.4 Carrier Pipe
4.4.1 General Requirements
A. The pipe shall be laid with sufficient slack so that it is not in tension.
B. Steel pipe shall not be used to convey sewage, storm water or other liquids which
could cause corrosion.
C. Carrier pipes located on NCRR's right-of-way or under tracks over which the
Operating Railroad operates, shall be manufactured in accordance with the following
specifications:
1. Steel Pipe - The ASTM or API specification and grade for the pipe is to be
shown on the Pipe Data Sheet. The specified minimum yield strength is to be at
least 35,000 psi. For flammable substances see Sections 4.4.2 and 4.4.3 of this
specification for additional requirements.
2. Ductile Iron Pipe - ANSI A21.51/AWWA C151
3. Corrugated Metal Pipe - AREMA Chapter 1, Part 4
D. Carrier pipes installed within a casing pipe shall be designed for the internal pressure
to which it will be subjected.
E. Gravity flow carrier pipes, installed without a casing pipe, shall meet the
requirements, of the particular pipe material, as given in Section 4.3 of this
specification.
F. Design computations, stamped by a Professional Engineer, must be submitted for all
uncased pressure pipelines installed on NCRR's right-of-way. The pipe must be
designed for the internal and external loads (see Section 4.1 of this specification) to
which it may be subjected. The design assumptions given in Section 4.2 of this
specification shall apply.
G. Reinforced concrete pipe will not be allowed for pipeline crossings except as a carrier
pipe when the pipeline is operated under gravity flow and a casing pipe is provided.
4.4.2 Pipelines Carrying Flammable Substances
A. Pipelines carrying oil, liquefied petroleum gas and other flammable products shall be
of steel and conform to the requirements of the current ANSI B 31.4 Liquid
Transportation Systems for hydrocarbons, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Anhydrous
Ammonia, and Alcohols, and other applicable ANSI codes, except that the maximum
allowable stresses for design of steel pipe shall not exceed the following percentages
of the specified minimum yield strength (multiplied by the longitudinal joint factor)
of the pipe as defined in the above codes:
1. The following percentages apply to hoop stress in steel pipe within a casing
under railroad tracks, across railroad right-of-way and longitudinally on railroad
right-of-way:
a. Seventy-two percent (72%) on oil pipelines.
b. Fifty percent (50%) for pipelines carrying condensate, natural gasoline,
natural gas liquids, liquefied petroleum gas, and other liquid petroleum
products.
c. Sixty (60%) percent for installations on gas pipelines.
2. The following percentages apply to hoop stress in steel pipe laid longitudinally
on railroad right-of-way without a casing:
a. Sixty percent (60%) for oil pipelines.
b. Forty percent (40%) for pipelines carrying condensate, natural gasoline,
natural gas liquids, liquefied petroleum gas, and other liquid petroleum
products.
c. For gas pipelines see Section 4.4.3.B of this specification.
B. Computations, based on the above requirements and stamped by a Professional
Engineer, shall be submitted with the application for occupancy.
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North Carolina Railroad Company
C. The distance from centerline of adjacent track to centerline of proposed manhole shall be
shown on the plans.
4.12 Box Culverts
A. Reinforced concrete box culverts shall conform to the requirements of AREMA Chapter 8,
Parts 13 and 16.
4.13 Drainage
A. Occupancies shall be designed, and their construction shall be accomplished, so that
adequate and uninterrupted drainage of NCRR's right-of-way is maintained.
B. All pipes, ditches and other structures carrying surface drainage on NCRR property and/or
under NCRR track(s) shall be designed to carry the run-off from a one hundred (100) year
storm. Computations indicating this design, prepared by a Professional Engineer, and
suitable topographic plans, outlining the total drainage area, shall be submitted for NCRR's
approval. All drainage applications are also subject to review and approval of the Operating
Railroad.
C. If the drainage is to discharge into an existing drainage channel on NCRR's right-of-way
and/or through a drainage structure under NCRR's track(s), the computations must include
the hydraulic analysis of any existing ditch and/or structure.
D. When calculating the capacity of existing or proposed drainage structures, under NCRR's
track(s), the headwater, at the structure shall not be greater than 1.5.
E. Pipe(s) used to carry surface drainage on NCRR's right-of-way shall have a minimum
diameter of 36 inches.
F. Detention ponds must not be placed on any part of NCRR's right-of-way. Also, the railroad
embankment must not be used as any part of a detention pond structure.
G. Formal approval of the proposed design, by the appropriate governmental agency having
jurisdiction, shall be submitted with the drainage computations.
4.14 Pipelines on Bridges
A. Pipelines of any type shall not be installed on any bridge carrying NCRR tracks.
B. New overhead pipe bridges shall not be constructed over NCRR's right-of-way where
underground installation of the pipeline is possible. Where the Applicant can show that no
practicable alternative is available, this type of structure will be permitted provided the
following conditions are met.
C. When forwarding requests of this nature, utilize the Application for Pipeline Occupancy to
the fullest extent possible. Along with the standard project drawings, complete structural
plans and design computations for the structure and foundations, sealed by a Professional
Engineer registered in the State of North Carolina, are also required.
D. The desired minimum vertical clearance for new bridges and structures over main tracks,
measured at a distance of 5’-6” from centerline of track shall be 24’-3” at the following
locations in order to provide for the potential of future electrification by means of an
overhead catenary system (designated route for the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor).
• NCRR H-Line, Greensboro to Raleigh (MP H 0.0 to MP H 80.7)
• NCRR Main Line, Charlotte to Greensboro (MP 284.0 to MP 378.3)
E. The absolute minimum vertical clearance at these locations shall be 23’-0”.
F. The absolute minimum vertical clearance for new bridges and structures over main tracks,
measured at a distance of 5’-6” from centerline of track shall be 23’-0” at the following
locations:
• NCRR H-Line, Raleigh to Goldsboro (MP H-80.7 to MP H-130).
• NCRR EC-Line, Goldsboro to near Kinston (MP EC-0.0 to MP EC-22.3).
G. The absolute minimum vertical clearance for new bridges and structures over main tracks,
measured at a distance of 5’-6” from centerline of track, at the following locations shall be
24’-11”:
• NCRR EC-Line, near Kinston to Morehead City (MP EC-22.3 to MP EC-94.2).
H. The support bents for the overhead structure are located off NCRR's right-of-way or a
minimum clear distance of 25 feet from centerline track, whichever distance is greater.
I. Support bents within 25 feet of centerline track must be approved by the Engineering
Representative and NCRR and shall have pier protection in accordance with AREMA,
Chapter 8, Part 2, Section 2.1.5.
J. Complete structural plans and design computations for the structure and foundations,
stamped by a Professional Engineer, are submitted with the application.
K. A fence (with barbed wire) or other measures are provided which will prevent access to the
bridge by unauthorized personnel or vandals.
L. Pipelines carrying flammable substances or non-flammable substances, which by their
nature might cause damage if escaping on or near railroad facilities or personnel, shall not
be installed on bridges over NCRR tracks. In special cases when it can be demonstrated to
the Engineering Representative’s satisfaction that such an installation is necessary and that
no practicable alternative is available, the Engineering Representative may permit the
installation but only by special design approval.
M. When permitted, pipelines on bridges over NCRR tracks shall be so located as to minimize
the possibility of damage from vehicles, railroad equipment, vandalism and other external
causes. They shall be encased in a casing pipe as directed by the Engineering
Representative (See Plate VII). Applications which involve attachments to public bridges
crossing NCRR property must include evidence of approval by the governing agency.
5.0 Construction Requirements
5.1 Method of Installation
5.1.1 General Requirements
A. All construction is subject to the requirements of the current version of the document
titled “North Carolina Railroad / Norfolk Southern Railway – Special Provisions for
Protection of Railway Interests”.
B. Bored, jacked or tunneled installations shall have a bore hole essentially the same as
the outside diameter of the pipe plus the thickness of the protective coating.
C. The use of water or other liquids to facilitate casing emplacement and spoil removal
is prohibited.
D. If during installation an obstruction is encountered which prevents installation of the
pipe in accordance with this specification, the pipe shall be abandoned in place and
immediately filled with grout. A new installation procedure and revised plans must
be submitted to, and approved by, the Engineering Representative before work can
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North Carolina Railroad Company
resume. The scope of the change may require additional engineering review fees as
determined by the Engineering Representative.
5.1.2 Open Cut
A. The Owner must request open cut approval when making application for occupancy.
B. Installations beneath the track by open trench methods will be permitted only with
the approval of the Operating Railroad.
C. Installations by open cut will not be permitted under mainline tracks, tracks carrying
heavy tonnage or tracks carrying passenger trains. Also, open cut shall not be used
within the limits of a highway/railroad grade crossing or its approaches, 25 feet either
side of traveled way, where possible. The open cut installation method is limited to
fills less than or equal to 10 feet as measured from the pipe invert to the base of rail.
D. At locations where open cut is permitted, the trench is to be backfilled with crushed
stone with a top size of the aggregate to be a maximum of 2 inches and to have no
more than 5% passing the number 200 sieve. The gradation of the material is to be
such that a dense stable mass is produced.
E. The backfill material shall be placed in 6 inch lifts and compacted to at least 95% of
its maximum density with a moisture content that is no more than 1 % greater than or
2% less than the optimum moisture as determined in accordance with current ASTM
Designation D 1557 (Modified Proctor). When the backfill material is within 3 feet
of the subgrade elevation (the interface of the ballast and the subsoil) a compaction of
at least 98% will be required. Compaction test results confirming compliance must be
provided to the Operating Railroad and the Engineering Representative by the
Owner.
F. All backfilled pipes laid either perpendicular or parallel to the tracks must be
designed so that the backfill material will be positively drained. This may require the
placement of lateral drains on pipes laid longitudinally to the track and the
installation of stub perforated pipes at the edge of the slopes.
G. Unless otherwise agreed upon, all work involving rail, ties and other track material
will be performed by Operating Railroad employees at the sole expense of the
Owner.
H. Pipeline installations shall not be designed as an open cut installation where the
pipeline is to be located within the limits of a grade crossing. If it is shown that no
other method of installation is possible, the owner will be responsible for reimbursing
NCRR, and/or the Operating Railroad, for all costs associated with the removal and
reconstruction of the grade crossing.
5.1.3 Bore and Jack (Steel Pipe)
A. This method consists of pushing the pipe into the earth with a boring auger rotating
within the pipe to remove the spoil.
B. The boring operation shall be progressed on a 24-hour basis without stoppage (except
for adding lengths of pipe) until the leading edge of the pipe has reached the
receiving pit.
C. The front of the pipe shall be provided with mechanical arrangements or devices that
will positively prevent the auger from leading the pipe so that no unsupported
excavation is ahead of the pipe.
D. The auger and cutting head arrangement shall be removable from within the pipe in
the event an obstruction is encountered. If the obstruction cannot be removed without
excavation in advance of the pipe, procedures as outlined in Section 5.1.1.C of this
specification must be implemented immediately.
E. The over-cut by the cutting head shall not exceed the outside diameter of the pipe by
more than ½ inch. If voids should develop or if the bored hole diameter is greater
than the outside diameter of the pipe (plus coating) by more than approximately 1
inch, grouting (see Section 5.2 of this specification) or other methods approved by
the Engineering Representative, shall be employed to fill such voids.
F. The face of the cutting head shall be arranged to provide a reasonable obstruction to
the free flow of soft or poor material.
G. Construction shall be carried on in such a manner that settlement of the ground
surface above the pipe line shall be held to an absolute minimum.
H. Plans and description of the arrangement to be used shall be submitted to the
Engineering Representative for approval and no work shall proceed until such
approval is obtained.
I. Any method that employs simultaneous boring and jacking for pipes over 8 inches in
diameter that does not have the above approved arrangement will not be permitted.
For pipes 8 inches and less in diameter, auguring or boring without this arrangement
may be considered for use only as approved by the Engineering Representative.
5.1.4 Jacking (Steel Pipe)
A. This method consists of pushing sections of pipe into position with jacks placed
against a backstop and excavation performed by hand from within the jacking shield
at the head of the pipe. Ordinarily 36-inch pipe is the least size that should be used,
since it is not practical to work within smaller diameter pipes.
B. Jacking shall be in accordance with the current AREMA Specifications, Chapter 1,
Part 4, Section 4.13 "Earth Boring and Jacking Culvert Pipe Through Fills". This
operation shall be conducted without hand-mining ahead of the pipe and without the
use of any type of boring, auguring, or drilling equipment.
C. Bracing and backstops shall be so designed and jacks of sufficient rating used so that
the jacking can be progressed on a 24-hour basis without stoppage (except for adding
lengths of pipe) until the leading edge of the pipe has reached the receiving pit.
D. Immediately upon completion of jacking operations, the installation shall be pressure
grouted as per Section 5.2 of this specification.
5.1.5 Tunneling (Tunnel Liner Plate)
A. This method consists of placing rings of liner plate within the tail section of a
tunneling shield or tunneling machine. A tunneling shield shall be used for all liner
plate installations unless otherwise approved by the Engineering Representative.
B. The shield shall be of steel construction, designed to support a railroad track loading
as specified in Section 4.1.3 of this specification, in addition to the other loadings
imposed. The advancing face shall be provided with a hood, extending no less than
20 inches beyond the face and extending around no less than the upper 240 degrees
of the total circumference. It shall be of sufficient length to permit the installation of
at least one complete ring of liner plates within the shield before it is advanced for
the installation of the next ring of liner plates. The shield shall conform to and not
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North Carolina Railroad Company
exceed the outside dimensions of the liner plate tunnel being placed by more than 1
inch at any point on the periphery unless otherwise approved by the Engineering
Representative.
C. The shield shall be adequately braced and provided with necessary appurtenances for
completely bulkheading the face with horizontal breastboards, and arranged so that
the excavation can be benched as may be necessary. Excavation shall not be
advanced beyond the edge of the hood, except in rock.
D. Manufacturer’s shop detail plans and manufacturer’s computations showing the
ability of the tunnel liner plates to resist the jacking stresses shall be submitted to the
Engineering Representative for approval.
E. Unless otherwise approved by the Engineering Representative, the tunneling shall be
conducted continuously, on a 24-hour basis, until the tunnel liner extends at least
beyond the theoretical railroad embankment line (See Plate III).
F. At any interruption of the tunneling operation, the heading shall be completely
bulkheaded.
G. The liner plates shall have tapped grout holes for no smaller than 1½ inch pipe,
spaced at approximately 3 feet around the circumference of the tunnel liner and 4 feet
longitudinally.
H. Grouting behind the liner plates shall be in accordance with Section 5.2 of this
specification.
5.1.6 Directional Boring / Horizontal Directional Drilling (Steel Pipe)
Method “A” (Less than 10”)
A. This method consists of setting up specialized drilling equipment on existing grade
(launching and receiving pits are not required) and boring a small diameter pilot hole
on the desired vertical and horizontal alignment, using a mechanical cutting head
with a high-pressure fluid (bentonite slurry) to remove the cuttings. The drill string is
advanced with the bentonite slurry pumped through the drill string to the cutting head
and then forced back along the outside of the drill string carrying the cuttings back to
the surface for removal. When the cutting head reaches the far side of the crossing, it
is removed and a reamer (with a diameter greater than the cutting head) is attached to
the lead end of the drill string. The pipeline is attached to the reamer and the pilot
hole is then back reamed while the pipeline is pulled into place.
B. This method is used to place pipelines under rivers, wetlands and other obstructions
which would be difficult to cross by conventional methods. The length of the bore is
generally several hundred feet in length, with installations over a thousand feet
possible.
C. Consideration will be given where the depth of cover is greater than 10 feet below the
base of rail, or the bore is in rock. Factors considered will be track usage, pipe size,
contents of pipeline, soil conditions, etc.
D. The following preliminary information must be submitted with the request for
consideration of this type of installation:
1. A site plan of the area.
2. A plan view and profile of the crossing.
3. A Pipe Data Sheet.
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North Carolina Railroad Company
this work and submitted for approval to the Engineering Representative before the start of
work. Proof of experience and competency shall accompany the submission.
5.4 Dewatering
A. When water is known or expected to be encountered, pumps of sufficient capacity to
handle the flow shall be maintained at the site, provided the contractor has received
approval from the Engineering Representative to operate them. Pumps in operation shall be
constantly attended on a 24-hour basis until, in the sole judgment of the Engineering
Representative, the operation can be safely halted. When dewatering, close observation
shall be maintained to detect any settlement or displacement of railroad embankment,
tracks, and facilities.
5.5 Safety Requirements
A. All operations related to the construction and/or installation of pipeline facilities shall be
conducted so as not to interfere with, interrupt, or endanger the operation of trains or
damage, destroy, or endanger the integrity of railroad facilities. All work on or near NCRR
property shall be conducted in accordance with the Operating Railroad’s safety rules and
regulations. The contractor shall secure and comply with the Operating Railroad’s safety
rules and shall give written acknowledgment to the Operating Railroad that they have been
received, read, and understood by the contractor and its employees. Operations will be
subject to inspection by the Operating Railroad and/or the Engineering Representative at
any and all times.
B. All cranes, lifts, or other equipment that will be operated in the vicinity of the railroad's
electrification and power transmission facilities shall be electrically grounded as directed
by the Operating Railroad.
C. At all times when the work is being progressed, a field supervisor for the work with no less
than twelve (12) months experience in the operation of the equipment being used shall be
present. If boring equipment or similar machines are being used, the machine operator also
shall have no less than twelve (12) months experience in the operation of the equipment
being used.
D. Whenever equipment or personnel are working closer than 25 feet from the centerline of an
adjacent track, that track shall be considered as being obstructed. Insofar as possible, all
operations shall be conducted no less than this distance. Operations closer than 25 feet from
the centerline of a track shall be conducted only with the permission of, and as directed by,
a duly qualified employee of the Operating Railroad present at the site of the work.
E. Crossing of tracks at grade by equipment and personnel is prohibited except by prior
arrangement with the Operating Railroad, and as directed by a qualified employee of the
Operating Railroad. A temporary crossing agreement with the Operating Railroad may be
required.
5.6 Blasting
A. Blasting will not be permitted.
5.7 Temporary Track Supports
A. When the jacking. boring or tunneling method of installation is used, and depending upon
the size and location of the crossing, the need for temporary track supports will be
determined by the Engineering Representative and the Operating Railroad.
B. Details of the temporary track supports shall conform to the specifications of the Operating
Railroad.
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North Carolina Railroad Company
C. The Owner’s contractor shall supply the track supports with installation and removal
performed by Operating Railroad employees.
D. The Owner shall reimburse the Operating Railroad for all costs associated with the
installation and removal of the track supports.
5.8 Protection of Drainage Facilities
A. If, in the course of construction, it may be necessary to block a ditch, pipe or other drainage
facility, temporary pipes, ditches or other drainage facilities shall be installed to maintain
adequate drainage, as approved by the Engineering Representative and the Operating
Railroad. Upon completion of the work, the temporary facilities shall be removed and the
permanent facilities restored.
B. Soil erosion methods shall be used to protect railroad ditches and other drainage facilities
during construction on and adjacent to NCRR's right-of-way.
5.9 Support of Excavation Adjacent to Track
5.9.1 Launching and Receiving Pits
A. The location and dimensions of all pits or excavations shall be shown on the plans.
The distance from centerline of adjacent track to face of pit or excavation shall be
clearly labeled. Also, the elevation of the bottom of the pit or excavation must be
shown on the profile.
B. The face of all pits shall be located outside of the theoretical railroad embankment
line unless otherwise approved by the Engineering Representative and the Operating
Railroad.
C. If the bottom of the pit excavation intersects the theoretical railroad embankment line
(See Plate III) interlocking steel sheet piling, driven prior to excavation, must be used
to protect the track stability. The use of trench boxes or similar devices is not
acceptable in this area.
D. Design plans and computations for the pits, stamped by a Professional Engineer,
must be submitted by the Owner at time of application or by the contractor prior to
start of construction. If the pit design is to be submitted by the contractor, the project
specifications must require the contractor to obtain NCRR's approval prior to
beginning any work on or which may affect NCRR property.
E. The sheeting shall be designed to support all lateral forces caused by the earth,
railroad and other surcharge loads. See Section 4.1.3 of this specification for railroad
loading.
F. After construction and backfilling, all sheet piling within 10 feet of centerline track
must be cut off 18 inches below final grade and left in place.
G. All excavated areas are to be illuminated (flashing warning lights not permitted),
fenced and otherwise protected as directed by the Operating Railroad.
5.9.2 Parallel Trenching and Other Excavation
A. When excavation for a pipeline or other structure will be within the theoretical
railroad embankment line (See Plate V) of an adjacent track, interlocking steel sheet
piling will be required to protect the track.
B. The design and construction requirements for this construction shall be in accordance
with the requirements of Section 5.9.1 of this specification.
PIPE DATA
CARRIER PIPE CASING PIPE
CONTENTS TO BE HANDLED
NORMAL OPERATING PRESSURE
NOMINAL SIZE OF PIPE
OUTSIDE DIAMETER
INSIDE DIAMETER
WALL THICKNESS
WEIGHT PER FOOT
MATERIAL
PROCESS OF MANUFACTURE
SPECIFICATION
GRADE OR CLASS
TEST PRESSURE
TYPE OF JOINT
TYPE OF COATING
DETAILS OF CATHODIC PROTECTION
DETAILS OF SEALS OR PROTECTION AT ENDS
OF CASING
METHOD OF INSTALLATION
CHARACTER OF SUBSURFACE MATERIAL AT
THE CROSSING LOCATION
APPROXIMATE GROUND WATER LEVEL
SOURCE OF INFORMATION ON SUBSURFACE
CONDITIONS (BORINGS, TEST PITS OR
OTHER)
TOTAL LENGTH WITHIN RIGHT OF WAY
NOTE: Any soil investigation made on railroad property or adjacent to tracks shall be carried on under
the supervision of the Engineering Representative and/or the Operating Railroad. (See Section
1.4 of this specification)
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