Embracing generational diversity and fostering a culture of collaboration can elevate performance, innovation, and long-term success. This #Iron Strong blog applies the research framework developed by a Midway College research team and presents the findings in the format of a water utility asset management plan.
TR Flex® is the most widely accepted and installed integrally cast restraint joint system in the Ductile iron pipe industry. Proven as a versatile and easy-to-use item, this joint is flexible, sure, and watertight to and beyond its up-to-350-psi pressure rating while preventing longitudinal separation of the joints, whether installed above or below ground.
Over the course of my 30+ year career with McWane Ductile, I’ve had the opportunity to be a part of some remarkably interesting and detailed water pipeline projects. Several of these projects have required a partnership between the community, awarding authority, contractor, water works distributor, and material manufacturer to ensure the projects were installed efficiently and correctly. However, few have matched the scale, complexity, and collaborative effort of the Saugus River crossing—part of the massive Belden Bly Bridge Replacement Project in Massachusetts. This project stands out not only for its technical challenges but also for the preparation, planning, and collaboration of key partners that brought it to a successful conclusion. In this #IronStrong Blog, you’ll hear the when, why, who, and how of this complex and intricate Ductile iron pipe (DI pipe) waterway crossing.
Picture This
Much time, effort, and care have gone into installing a water line. Crews have worked through inclement weather. Unexpected rock was found, slowing progress but not stopping the pipe's installation. Crews have worked long hours to meet deadlines and are anticipating the end of the project.
But wait, you have not pressurized the line. All eyes are on that gauge, hoping to validate that the work was successfully completed.
Ductile Iron (DI pipe) was first used in the United States as early as 1950's. Since iron pipe was one of the earliest pipe materials to be used in modern water works and wastewater systems, most early fittings and couplings were designed to be used on Grey Cast and then Ductile iron pipe.
So, connecting “other” piping material to DI pipe is very straightforward on the Ductile pipe side of the fitting. The most important item to consider is on the other material side of the connection.
The third week of June typically marks the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, but hot and humid conditions are already upon us. Because McWane Ductile manufactures Ductile iron products in a foundry environment, ensuring our employees are safe from injury and illness, such as heat stress, is crucial. This #IronStrong Blog describes the stages of heat stress and how McWane Ductile enables employees to combat this hazard within the foundries during seasons with increased temperatures. The tips listed in this blog can also be applied at home and play.
In a continuous effort to make your job easier, we have developed an online submittal builder to quickly and neatly package your personalized presentation.
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Looking for answers to your DI pipe questions? Find decades of Ductile iron expertise with installation guides, videos, tip sheets, training resources, and more in our Learning Center.
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