There is talk a plenty of legacies in every sphere and in every community. None more so than when a significant and high profile contract is awarded. The importance of the infrastructure is paramount to the success of the site – in the building and the operational phase.

FT Pipeline Systems have major project experience in supplying small and large projects of this type. These can be local improvements to water supplies or major schemes of many millions of pounds. Whatever the value, the importance of high quality pipeline products that will outlast their design life cannot be undervalued and FT Pipeline Systems provide solutions for such requirements.

The majority of schemes start with detailed design and crucially this involves discussions on material suitability. FT Pipelines Systems are always happy to provide technical assistance in these areas and presentations on specific projects are often where critical questions and answers are asked and given.

Decisions on steel grade, pressure rating, wall thickness, jointing, coating and lining are all key areas for discussion. Pipe lengths, site access and handling of the pipes (unloading and during the laying phase of the works) are further areas for discussion.

Recent works on a major scheme in the South East of the UK involved such processes starting with the appointed consultant and a general overview. A number of different contractors were apportioned sections of work and each contractor had different requirements ranging from 80mm to 1200mm diameter. Straight pipes, fittings, fabrications, shrink sleeves and a range of associated products were supplied over a three year period.

The majority of pipe was coated with three layer polyethylene and lined with cement mortar in the smaller diameters (80mm to 300mm) and was jointed in the traditional tyton push fit method. Above this diameter the lining was either cement or 3M epoxy with FT Pipeline’s socket weld or ejoint system.

FT Pipeline Systems have a further client benefit – an on site team who liaise with the logistics provider and the site team to engage co-operation and togetherness. Materials are checked, identified and agreed safe unloading procedures are followed . Travel restrictions or timed deliveries are another consideration. Training in shrink sleeve application, any pipe laying questions and any trouble shooting is handled by the same site team.

From beginning to end, FT Pipeline Systems provide support with technical experience. We consider our role to be an important cog in the construction wheel whether it be a small or large scheme, one contractor or many. The development in the South East demonstrates this more than any other scheme but the AMP schemes for the Water Authorities could be viewed in the same way.

A Water utility will have many schemes of both a small and large financial base. There is one client and many schemes with nominated contractors. FT Pipeline Systems can and do add value to these schemes and working together often produces enhanced results.

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