Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of forming the primary core of a concrete pipe. A steel cylinder is disposed vertically on the base of the pipe forming machine. A conventional rotary packerhead having a diameter less than the inner diameter of the steel cylinder is lowered concentrically to the bottom thereof. Concrete is then introduced within the steel cylinder through the upper end thereof. The packerhead is rotated to force the concrete into the annular gap between the packerhead and the steel cylinder. As the primary core is formed, the packerhead is raised and rotated while concrete is introduced within the steel cylinder, thereby forming a primary core consisting of a steel cylinder having an inner lining of concrete. In an alternative embodiment, the steel cylinder is completely embedded within the concrete.