PVC PIPE: BEST CHOICE FOR THE POST PANDEMIC ECONOMY

Finding ourselves in the Caribbean, with smaller budgets for our underground infrastructure because of the pandemic, it is critical that we invest in more cost-effective and sustainable practices.

Broader use of PVC pipe would solve this problem and enable water utilities to spend taxpayer dollars more wisely. To do this, local governments and utilities need to insist on procurement practices that prioritize corrosion-proof PVC pipe.

Some pressure pipe designers and owners are not comfortable with the use of PVC pressure pipes under roads. Their concern is that traffic loads will cause the pipe to over-deflect (ovalize). However, engineering analysis and experience have shown that over-deflection is not a problem. PVC pressure pipe has been successfully installed and operated under roads for more than fifty years. As we look forward to the post-pandemic world we at TRICON believe that PVC pipes can be a wise and economical decision for our underground infrastructure.