Improving Water Infrastructure, One Pipe at a Time

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Water pipes are extremely important and prolific in the United States.  In fact, the United States has over 2.2 million miles of water pipes, which is enough to complete 4.5 round trips to the moon.  Although water infrastructure is important, it also faces many challenges.  For instance, in the United States, a water main break occurs approximately every two minutes. 

With  this in mind, it becomes clear that change is necessary.  Because of these challenges, communities in the United States will invest nearly $8.5 billion in improving drinking water pipe networks in 2024.  

Over the past centuries, the US has utilized a variety of water pipe systems.  For example, in 1820, steel pipes were used.  These pipes have a proposed longevity of 85 years, although the lifespan is often much shorter due to corrosion.  Prestressed concrete cylinder pipes were introduced in 1942 as an alternative to steel pipes.  These pipes are more sustainable, but they have a high rate of premature failure, making innovation necessary. 

Ductile iron pipes (DIP) was the proposed solution to previous models of pipes.  However, it also has its own problems; DIPs have a staggering environmental impact, releasing 128 kg of carbon dioxide from every 1 meter of 200 mm DIP.  They also face problems with corrosion. 

To remedy these problems, Hobas fiberglass reinforced polymer mortar (FRPM) is an option.  It has a lifespan of over 150 years and can be used to reinforce existing pipes, or create new pipes entirely.  It has the lowest carbon footprint of any other water piping system, making it sustainable and efficient. 

Investing in sustainable and reliable water pipe systems is vital to a flourishing infrastructure, and innovation is needed as the United States improves its system.  Options like FRPM can go a long way in boosting water infrastructure functioning, making it important to consider and implement.

The Water Fiberglass Pipe – Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow