Definitions for "Strutting"
Elongation of the vertical axis of pipe prior to installing in a trench.  After the backfill has been placed around the pipe and compacted, the wires or rods holding the pipe in its distorted shape are removed.  Greater side support from the earth is developed when  the  pipe  tends  to return to its original shape.  Generally used on pipes which, because of size or thinness of the metal, would tend to deform during construction operations.  Arches are strutted diagonally per standard or special plan.
a. & n. from Strut, v.