Reinforced Concrete Pipe is preferred by industry professionals across the nation for its resilient fabrication and ability to mitigate flood risk and damage. Here are the top 16 reasons why engineers and municipalities specify concrete pipe:
1. Strength
Reinforced concrete pipe offers unmatched strength. It is manufactured to meet the load requirements of any project.
2. Resilience
Concrete pipe is engineered to last and can serve a prolonged service life of 100 years or longer.
3. Dependability
Decades of research and development has enabled producers to improve manufacturing processes and provide precast products that can withstand challenging environments.
4. Structure & Conduit
Concrete pipe is a rigid material that provides structure and conduit. It is less likely to be damaged during construction because it does not deflect like flexible pipe.
5. Non-Flammable
Unlike alternative materials, concrete pipe does not burn. Nonflammable materials assist in the planning of safer road and highway cross drains and rural forested communities.
6. Cost
Cost variables, including material cost, service life, inflation rates, replacement cost, and residual values, are important in the design of roadways. The Life Design concept considers all the factors that could potentially lead to premature replacement.
7. Value
The value of an asset must absorb the costs of initial design, material cost, installation, and maintenance over its service life. Concrete pipe requires minimal maintenance throughout its extended service life compared to alternative materials, providing exceptional value.
8-9. Environmental Considerations
With its long service life, use of natural and recycled materials, and local availability, concrete pipe is an environmentally conscious solution. Concrete pipe is suitable for LEED projects and fits sustainable development.
10. Ease and Value of Installation
Reinforced concrete pipe is manufactured and delivered ready to install, maximizing installation times.
11. Design and Construction Flexibility
For projects that require complex design elements, concrete pipe provides a solution. It is available in round and elliptical shapes, offered in many sizes, and can be installed in deep and shallow trenches.
12. Joints Performance
Concrete pipe offers a variety of joints from soil-tight to pressure, meeting the demands of any project.
13-14. Mass and Hydraulic Performance
Concrete pipe resists flotation and proves reliable in low-lying and marsh environments.
15. Quality Control
Concrete pipe is tested to meet rigorous quality standards.
16. Sustainability
The service life of concrete pipe can more than double alternative products. In some cases, the pipe can be reinstalled to prolong its service life. At the end of its life cycle, it can be recycled and repurposed as new construction or fill materials.
County Materials is committed to manufacturing responsibly made, long-lasting concrete construction products that make our communities stronger and safer. Use our concrete pipe for your next project by contacting us at (800) 242-7733.
The American Concrete Pipe Association offers valuable technical resources for designers and engineers. Refer to their publication “16 Reasons to Choose Concrete” to learn more.
