Unleashing the Power of Rain: Corrugated Steel Pipe for Sustainable Water Management
In today’s environmentally conscious construction landscape, sustainable solutions are paramount. Have you ever considered rainwater harvesting for irrigation, non-potable uses, or LEED credits? Corrugated steel pipe (CSP) offers a durable, cost-effective, and watertight cistern system that can be tailored to your specific needs. Furthermore, the adaptability of CSP allows for a variety of design options to seamlessly integrate with any site or scenario. The recycled steel content in CSP provides an added benefit, enabling manufacturers to offer LEED credit. Additionally, CSP can be manufactured in long lengths for ease of installation and in large diameters to accommodate varying volume requirements. In the current climate of sustainable construction, CSP is undeniably the ideal option.
A Case Study in Sustainability: The University of Georgia’s Special Collections Library
The University System of Georgia has prioritized sustainability, driven by both economic factors and the need to combat periods of extended drought. Recently, the University of Georgia expanded its campus with the addition of a Special Collections Library. This project necessitated a large cistern system for rainwater collection to irrigate the surrounding landscape. To achieve this, they turned to a corrugated steel pipe rainwater harvesting solution. Consequently, the engineer of record, Breedlove Land Planning Inc., designed three large tanks, measuring 37 feet, 50 feet, and 58 feet in length, to be fabricated from 144-inch diameter, 10 gauge CSP. Moreover, the cistern’s Aluminized Steel Type 2 coating ensures a remarkable 100-year service life.
Engineering Excellence: Ensuring Watertight Integrity and Efficient Installation
Breedlove specified that these CSP tanks be fabricated as single pieces with bulkheads welded to each end, both interior and exterior, to guarantee water tightness. To further enhance their integrity, the lock seams were sealed during the manufacturing process to eliminate leakage. As a result, the lock seams can be sealed by a full seam weld or by incorporating a gasket during manufacturing.
To prevent leaks at pipe joints, the tanks were connected using 12-inch flanged CSP. In addition, control gates were welded to the interior of the tanks to regulate flow between them. The ease of fabrication inherent to CSP pipes meant that the tanks were swiftly manufactured and delivered to the job site on schedule. The pipes were then unloaded from the trucks, set in place, and backfilled promptly. However, it is recommended to conduct a leakage test before backfilling.
Corrugated Steel Pipe: A Superior Choice for Rainwater Harvesting
Corrugated steel pipe is a compelling option for any specifier contemplating a rainwater harvesting system. A local pipe manufacturer can provide invaluable expertise and fabrication ideas. Before designing your next cistern, consider the advantages that CSP can bring to your project. For more information, visit our Answer Desk or find a local member.