What are the standard diameters for sewer cleaning rods as per IS 11931?

The standard specifies nominal diameters of 12 mm and 16 mm (Clause 4.1).

What is the material specified for these rods?

The rods shall be made from steel conforming to IS 226 (now superseded by IS 2062) or other equivalent standards (Clause 3.1).

What is the standard length of one rod section?

Each rod section should have a nominal length of 1 meter (Clause 4.2).

What is the flexibility test requirement for these rods?

The rod must be capable of being bent cold through 180 degrees around a former of diameter equal to the rod's nominal diameter without showing any sign of fracture or cracks (Clause 7.2).

IS 11931

: 1987

sewer cleaning metal rods

CurrentSpecializedSpecificationWater Resources · Public Health Engineering

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This standard specifies the requirements for materials, dimensions, construction, workmanship, finish, and testing of metal rods used for cleaning sewers and drains. It covers two standard diameters and ensures the rods have adequate strength and flexibility for manual cleaning operations.

sewer cleaning metal rods

Quick Reference Values

Nominal diameter of rods12 mm or 16 mm

Nominal length of each rod section1 m

Tolerance on diameter±0.4 mm

Tolerance on length±10 mm

Minimum tensile strength of steel410 MPa (as per IS 226)

Practical Notes

The referenced material standard IS 226 has been superseded by IS 2062. Ensure the steel grade used is equivalent, typically E250 (Fe 410W) Grade A.

The design and quality of the couplings between rod sections are critical for performance and durability, though not exhaustively detailed in the code. This is a common point of failure.

Proper galvanization or coating as per Clause 5.3 is essential to prevent rapid corrosion in the harsh sewer environment.