Sustainably safe and reliable operation of GRP pipe systems

GRP pipe systems have been used worldwide very successfully for the transport of liquid media for communal and industrial applications for several decades. The success of GRP pipe systems is based on its flexible pipe wall design according to the project specific requirements and its corrosion resistance compared to traditional pipe materials, and therefore a long service life. Moreover, GRP pipe systems are very efficient in terms of installation, operation and maintenance. Potential nonconformities of GRP pipe systems are in most cases the result of installation problems. To ensure the sustainably safe and reliable long-term operation of GRP pipe systems, it is of utmost importance to comply with the requirements during manufacturing of pipes, fittings and joints, and to carry out the correct installation and operation of the GRP pipe systems. This paper gives an overview of the characteristics and aspects of GRP pipe systems, to ensure its sustainably safe and reliable long-term operation.