We live in a world where things are measured by what is seen, smelled, and felt. The rigidity of steel and concrete are something that assumed to be of greater physical integrity than HDPE plastic. However, it is this particular take on construction materials that has hindered many construction firms. It has made them look a bit both antiquated & anachronistic.
This isn’t to say that traditional materials like steel and concrete weren’t, and aren’t still, considered to be construction mainstays. The issue comes down to not fully understanding the significance of HDPE plastic and what it brings to the proverbial table in terms the modern-day construction best practices.
Who Uses HDPE
High density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic is used in a number of applications such as oil & gas, mining, communications, and municipal waste waterworks. The unique molecular nature of HDPE makes it so that it can resist corrosion & be virtually leakproof, all while maintaining its integrity. What’s more, HDPE is notably maintenance-free and has a lifespan anywhere between 50-100 years. As such, this longevity and stoutness makes for an ideal material to be used in any construction project.
Why Choose HDPE
One of the other premier reasons that HDPE plastic is of great value to a construction project is that it saves money in a variety of ways:
- less labor costs to maintain
- weighs less, making transport of materials easier & more fuel-efficient; low weight also makes it ideal to be moved with ease on a job site without overtly specialized machinery
- expansion of existing systems becomes easier
- can be made to longer standard lengths of pipe rather than having to join shorter, more expensive steel
HDPE plastic also proves to be an ideal material to use at a time when all manufacturing is having to meet the demand for green initiatives & building ‘cleaner’. HDPE is an easily recyclable material, and even “waste” bits are recycled so that nothing is wasted. This proves to be especially valuable when one considers the critical role of environmental remediation. By indicating materials as environmentally sound as HDPE plastic during the quoting process, contractors are able to initiate remediation best practices before the project even begins.
Can HDPE plastic be of great benefit to your next project? Contact us here at CCI Culberson Engineering & Construction. We can break down the pros & cons and help explain why HDPE may be exactly what you’re looking for.
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