• Cost-effective, labor-saving, long-life pipe provides solution for new and old systems
IRVING, TX, Mar. 5, 2009 -- According to the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), money from the economic stimulus package can go further when pipe made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is used for infrastructure projects. This will save money in time and materials and the millions of dollars that literally go down the drain from wasted water.
"There are two distinct problems: less than ideal pipe systems made from metal or concrete and wasted water that comes from using these materials," stated Tony Radoszewski, executive director, Plastics Pipe Institute. "Both can be solved with HDPE pipe that is easy to install, sustainable and delivers a totally leak-free system.
"Infrastructure managers have struggled to replace aging water and sewer systems, but have not had the funds to address the problem. Now with the stimulus package signed by President Obama they can do the job and install a superior system that is more economical and environmentally responsible. They can make each dollar go further and have a system built for 2009, not 1909.
"The figures of water loss are staggering," Radoszewski explained. "Due to the inherent physical limitations of traditional pipe systems, it is a common practice for utilities to have a 10-15 percent rate of water loss. Some hit 40 percent."
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 2009 Report Card for America's Infrastructure calculates that leaking pipes lose an estimated seven billion gallons of clean drinking water a day.
"But it's not only a 'cost-of-water' issue. Leaking sanitary sewer and storm sewer pipes can also contaminate drinking water, promote sink holes and cause flooding that destroys roads and property. There is also the energy cost to purify water that never gets to the end user -- the rate payers of the community.
"Now is the time to use the economic stimulus package to rehabilitate aging water and sewer systems with HDPE pipelines to build a lasting underground infrastructure that conserves resources and protects the environment," Radoszewski concluded.
The Plastics Pipe Institute Inc. is the major trade association representing all segments of the plastic piping industry.
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