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by Wilbert Vault
There are several factors or types of loads that weigh upon a burial
vault. Understanding the types of loads and how they each impact the burial
vault is essential to understanding the importance of a quality lined
burial vault.
Static Load
A static or stationary load is simply the weight of the earth that
rests directly over a burial vault. This load has decreased since
the 1920s. In most cemeteries today, the average grave has 18 inches
of earth covering, which results in a static load of approximately
4,000 pounds (two tons). |
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Dynamic Load
A dynamic load is a load that varies in intensity. This load is transferred
to a burial vault as heavy cemetery equipment passes over the grave.
The equipment used in cemeteries is much larger and heavier today.
Some cemeteries use a backhoe, which weighs close to 25,000 pounds
on average. |
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Impact Load
An impact or shock load is produced by a mechanical tamper or the
dropping of a backhoe bucket and delivers a very concentrated force
through the soil. This has an extreme effect on a small area of the
burial vault cover at shallow grave depths. |
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