When it comes to high tunnels, the size of the pipe used can vary depending on the specific requirements and preferences of the gardener or landscaper. However, there are some common sizes of tubing that are often used for high tunnels.
1.315 inches OD: This is one of the smaller sizes of tubing commonly used for purlins and bracing in high tunnels. Purlins are horizontal supports that run along the length of the tunnel, providing additional structural stability. Bracing, on the other hand, helps to reinforce the overall framework of the tunnel. The 1.315 inches OD tubing is relatively lightweight and can be easily manipulated and installed.
1.66 inches OD: Another commonly used size for purlins and bracing in high tunnels is 1.66 inches OD. This size offers slightly more strength and stability compared to the 1.315 inches OD tubing. It is often chosen when the high tunnel requires a bit more support or if the tunnel is larger in size. The 1.66 inches OD tubing is still relatively lightweight and easy to work with.
1.90 inches OD: This size of tubing is slightly larger and is often used for the main framework of high tunnels. The main framework consists of the vertical and horizontal pipes that form the basic structure of the tunnel. The 1.90 inches OD tubing provides a good balance between strength and weight, making it suitable for supporting the covering material and withstanding external forces such as wind and snow.
2.197 inches OD: This is a less common size of tubing used for high tunnels but may be chosen for specific applications or requirements. It offers increased strength and stability compared to the smaller sizes and can be suitable for larger and more robust high tunnels. The 2.197 inches OD tubing can handle heavier loads and provides additional structural integrity.
2.375 inches OD: Similar to the 2.197 inches OD tubing, the 2.375 inches OD tubing is less commonly used for high tunnels but may be preferred for larger and more heavy-duty structures. It offers even greater strength and stability, making it suitable for high tunnels in areas with extreme weather conditions or when the tunnel needs to withstand heavy snow loads.
Personal Experience: In my own gardening and landscaping projects, I have used a combination of these tubing sizes for different high tunnels. For smaller and lighter structures, the 1.315 inches and 1.66 inches OD tubing worked well for purlins and bracing. However, for larger tunnels or areas prone to strong winds, I have opted for the 1.90 inches or even the 2.197 inches OD tubing for the main framework. The choice of tubing size ultimately depends on factors such as the size of the high tunnel, the expected loads, and the specific environmental conditions of the location.
The size of the pipe used for high tunnels can vary, but common sizes include 1.315 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.90 inches, 2.197 inches, and 2.375 inches OD. The choice of tubing size depends on factors such as the desired strength and stability, the size of the high tunnel, and the environmental conditions.
