How to Select GRP Pipes

1. How to Select GRP Pipes GRP pipes have emerged as the preferred material for water and wastewater infrastructure. GRP has many advantages over other conventional materials that makes it an ideal choice. It shows more resistance to corrosive elements than almost any other alternative. It is durable, versatile and less likely to develop any leaks. This is why new installations today go for composites like GRP in all kind of terrains. But given their importance and longevity, it is also important that we choose wisely. It is important to understand that all GRPs are not the same and each has its own pros and cons. Any choice we make will ultimately be dependent on the function, conditions and our particular requirements. A reliable supplier should be able to meet all and any of your demands. But before that you have to know what you are looking for: Pressure Pressure is always an important component when designing water transportation systems. If the pressure of the water is too great for the pipes to withstand, you will develop problems sooner or later. The pressure of the water is a mechanical force which will influence the structural integrity of the pipes. So, check the pressure of the flow before picking the pipe. You can find out the maximum operating pressure that a pipe can handle by checking the nominal pressure rating, denoted by PN number. Load This refers to the external load that a pipe is expected to bear. This is an important criteria in underground installations where a pipe will have to bear the weight of the soil above. The more the depth of the installation, the more will be the load. This has a direct impact on determining the load bearing capacity of the pipe, which comes from its stiffness. Stiffness This is actually decided with the pressure component. The stiffness of the pipe also decides its strength. Ut is often defined as its resistance to deflection. In layman terms, the greater a pipe’s stiffness , the greater is its wall thickness. The thickness, in turn, tells us about its ability to withstand external and internal pressures. The external pressures can comes from bending or load, while the internal pressure comes from the flow inside. A reputable supplier will give you a number of options in this regard with pipes of different stiffness classes. Keep in mind that the stiffness also effects the flexibility of the pipe and this may effect the installation. The standard pipe stiffness is usually sufficient for the average use, but special circumstances and terrains may require a different stiffness.

2. Stiffness is denoted by the SN number. This is the measurement of the stiffness and will give you a better idea of its capacity. For instance, SN 2500 is suitable for minor loads and is best used for above ground installations. SN 5000 have more load-bearing capacity, but can only be used up to a depth of 3m of mixed soil. Similarly, the number goes up as the depth increases. Customisation Although most reliable manufacturers will provide you with a wide variety of GRP pipes with plenty of options in terms of pressure and stiffness, some installations may need customisation. This is usually an important factor when we are transporting something other than water or when the terrain is unusual. Customisation can extend to the manufacturing process where special materials can be used to enhance resistance or it can be design related for special installations. Customisation of the glass reinforcements also gives us the desired mechanical strength. The type and arrangement of the glass reinforcement will give it its resistance. The right formulation can enhance resistance to electricity or acids or Budget While customisation may seem desirable, keep in mind that it also comes at a cost. More demanding your specification, the more likely the overall cost. Most reputable manufacturers will have a fairly wide range of pipes and it is quite possible that you will find what you are looking for without paying anything extra. Deciding the budget beforehand will help you to plan your expenses. Certification It is important that you always check the certification of your GRP pipe supplier. The right certification show that proper methods were followed during the manufacturing process and the pipes meet a certain standard. This is important in maintaining the hygienic and working standards of the pipes.