Reinforced concrete pipe is a robust solution for managing storm water. Widely chosen by industry professionals for its inherent strength, environmentally conscious production, and flood protection capabilities, here are 16 reasons why concrete pipe is favored by engineers and municipalities.
1. Robust Construction
Reinforced concrete pipe stands out as the most durable pipe option. It is designed and tested in climate-controlled manufacturing plants to withstand any load requirement when installed according to industry standards. Enhanced with wire reinforcement, concrete's strength increases over time, often surpassing initial strength assessments after years of service.
2. Longevity
Concrete pipes resist burning, rusting, and buckling, making them immune to most environmental factors, whether buried or exposed. This contributes to their longevity, which often exceeds 100 years.
3. Reliability
Advances in concrete mixtures, pipe design, and production techniques have contributed to concrete pipe’s ability to endure diverse underground conditions and waste profiles. As one of the world’s most commonly used building materials, concrete pipe is trusted and specified by engineers and installers to meet diverse and challenging project requirements.
4. Structural Integrity
As a rigid product, concrete pipe serves as a conduit and a structure within storm water management systems. It can span uneven bases without impacting its hydraulic performance, unlike flexible pipes which may fail from deformation or collapse.
5. Heat and Fire Resistance
Concrete pipe is non-combustible. Concrete pipes do not burn and can withstand extreme temperatures that may damage other pipe materials.
6. Low Life Design Cost
The Life Design concept for measuring the cost of underground drainage culverts and storm sewers accounts for factors such as material cost, material life, inflation rates, replacement cost, and residual values. Concrete pipe easily meets all of the demands of the Life Design concept, offering an economical solution.
7. Long-Term Investment Value
Choosing concrete pipe for infrastructure projects ensures the asset will retain its value for many years. With minimal depreciation and negligible repair or replacement costs, its lifetime ownership cost is lower than alternative materials.
8. Minimal Environmental Footprint
Concrete's production involves less energy than plastic and utilizes widely available, natural and abundant materials. This reduces fossil fuel consumption, especially when local resources are used.
9. Recyclability
Pipelines, and in particular culverts, are often used in temporary applications to facilitate drainage during construction. The rigid nature of concrete pipe makes it ideal for removal and reuse in other applications, which can reduce waste in temporary drainage projects. Additionally, at the end of its service life, concrete can be crushed and used for a variety of applications or recycled into new concrete products.
10. Installation Ease
Following industry standards, the simple joint assembly of concrete pipes accelerates installation. Less site preparation is required because the system derives the majority of its strength from the concrete pipe rather than the soil envelope.
11. Design Versatility
Available in diverse sizes, shapes, and with various linings, concrete pipes are suitable for a range of applications including sanitary and storm sewers, and culverts.
12. Exceptional Joint Performance
Concrete pipes offer various joint types to meet diverse project specifications and challenging applications. This ensures reliable joint performance in the field.
13. Flotation Resistance
In wet conditions and during storm events, concrete pipes resist flotation due to their mass, reducing the likelihood of vertical heaving or horizontal snaking common in lighter pipe materials.
14. Hydraulic Efficiency
The rigid structure of concrete pipes ensures consistent hydraulic performance and effective liquid transportation. They remain undamaged during subsequent construction phases, maintaining their intended line and grade.
15. Quality Assurance
Manufactured to precise standards and subjected to rigorous testing, precast concrete benefits from advanced production technologies and quality control methods, ensuring top-grade products.
16. Sustainable Choice
With a lifespan potentially double that of alternatives, concrete pipes can be reused or recycled, aligning with sustainable construction practices. They are also adaptable to future project expansions or modifications.
County Materials is committed to manufacturing long-lasting, responsibly made concrete construction products that protect and strengthen our communities. Use concrete pipe for your next project by contacting us at (800) 242-7733.
The American Concrete Pipe Association offers technical resources for designers and engineers. Refer to their publication titled “16 Reasons to Choose Concrete” to learn more.
