Composite Waste water Pipes

Photo Credit: Roantrum via flicker

Composite waste water pipes are becoming increasingly popular as traditional steel and concrete pipes are due for replacement around the world. Concrete, being a porous material allows moisture to penetrate and corrode the steel reinforcement. This can damage the structural integrity of the pipes, and ultimately will require retrofitting.

Here is an article from WaterWorld on the increasing use of FRP composites in waste water pump stations, the article states:

"Many companies in the wastewater treatment industry make their products out of steel and concrete. But steel is highly susceptible to corrosion caused by various chemicals in the wastewater stream. This tendency for corrosion is often accelerated by chloride-rich environments, such as areas with natural salt water concentrations – ultimately shortening the life spans of these lift stations Concrete stations tend to crack as they settle, resulting in leakage and typically higher maintenance costs. Both steel and concrete stations also are extremely heavy, making them difficult to transport and install."