Wastewater Pipelines: Three Material Options for Your Commercial Building
Posted on: 23 February 2017
If you are building a new commercial structure or thinking about upgrading your old one, you should consider your wastewater management options. If the system selected for your building is not reliable, you might experience serious problems related to property contamination. In addition, the defective sewage network will require frequent repairs and servicing, resulting in high long-term expenses. There are different factors which will affect the reliability of your wastewater system. One of these elements is the material used in creating the pipeline; this will determine durability and performance. Here are the most beneficial materials to consider utilising for your commercial wastewater pipelines.
Concrete
The primary advantage of concrete as a construction material is the inherent strength it has. This is an advantageous property for wastewater pipelines because they are exposed to extensive stress. Moreover, this material is highly durable and low maintenance. Therefore, you can expect long-term service without high operational costs.
On the other hand, concrete is a porous material, so it is vulnerable to damage when continuously exposed to ground water in the soil and the wastewater. If you decide to install these pipes, ensure that the surfaces are lined with protective plastic. You should also note that concrete pipelines will fail if poorly installed, so engage an experienced contractor for the task.
Polyvinyl Chloride
Polyvinyl chloride, which is more commonly referred to as PVC, is a low-cost material because it is widely available. Therefore, you can minimise your total project expenses by purchasing PVC wastewater pipes. The material is also relatively lightweight, particularly when compared to an alternative like precast concrete pipes. This means that the installation process will be considerably easier and less labour-intensive. PVC pipelines are also beneficial because the plastic is not prone to corrosion when exposed to wastewater. T
he main shortcoming of these pipes is their susceptibility to pressure damage. Therefore, you should check the specifications of your preferred products against the needs defined for your commercial construction project.
Fibre-Reinforced Polymer
Fibre-reinforced polymer is ideal for pipeline systems because of its unique construction. As implied, this material is made using plastic materials. Therefore, the surfaces are nonporous and invulnerable to corrosion when exposed to wastewater. The structure is also not subject to gradual degradation after underground installation. Additionally, the plastic is combined with glass fibres. This addresses the main challenge faced with regard to simple polymer pipes: strength. The fibres strengthen the plastic structure, ensuring the pipelines will perform better under high pressure.
For the best results, discuss all material options with your pipeline contractor.
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