The history of water pipe development is a testament to human ingenuity, stretching back to 4000 BCE in the Indus River Valley, where clay pipes were fashioned. From wood in Ancient Crete to copper in Egypt, and finally the intricate aqueducts of Ancient Rome, our methods evolved. Today, in the United States alone, there are over 2.2 million miles of water pipe, yet with a water main break every two minutes, it’s clear our infrastructure needs attention.
In 1820, steel pipes emerged with a promised longevity of 85 years, but corrosion often cut that short. Prestressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP) arrived in 1942, boasting a 96-year lifespan, yet suffering from a high rate of sudden failures. Ductile iron pipe (DIP) followed in 1955 but faced environmental concerns and reduced life spans due to corrosion.
Then came the breakthrough: Hobas Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer Mortar (FRPM) in 1960, offering a lifespan of over 150 years and the lowest carbon footprint of any water piping system. With recent federal funding announcements and growing awareness of the need for infrastructure overhaul, municipalities are urged to prepare for the pipes of the future.
The urgency is clear: the US loses 6 billion gallons of treated water daily, a staggering waste. Despite vast networks, only a fraction of pipes are replaced each year, leading to a daunting 200-year replacement cycle. Aging infrastructure demands attention, with materials like FRPM promising to cut maintenance needs, reduce emissions, and prevent disasters like sinkholes.
Investing in sustainable materials like FRPM not only addresses immediate concerns but also aligns with long-term sustainability goals. Municipalities are embracing resilience and sustainability officers to navigate these challenges.
The water pipe has evolved over millennia, and now, with the promise of FRPM, we stand on the brink of a new era in water infrastructure. It’s time for communities to embrace the future, safeguarding their water systems for generations to come.