Reimagining water research and innovation with reclaim pipe
Sponsored by REHAU
In 2022, Gwinnett County established The Water Tower (TWT) in Buford, Georgia, aiming to achieve its goal of becoming a leader in producing high-quality, cost-effective water, while at the same time establishing a global hub for water research and technology.
Chad Wilbanks, director of training and technology at TWT, sought a local distributor for piping to convey flows from the F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Center to TWT’s demonstration facility. This search led Wilbanks to connect with Bill King, REHAU’s business development manager. King’s hands-on demonstration of the reclaim product impressed Wilbanks.
“Bill got us involved in the demo and showed us how durable and easy MUNICIPEX reclaim is,” Wilbanks said.
The versatility of the reclaim pipe offers dual benefits. It serves daily operations by transferring water between facilities while supporting the organization’s water utilities education mission. The pipe is featured in hands-on training sessions that seamlessly integrate its use within the building in demonstrations.
Save on Materials, Stay on Schedule
The reclaim pipe provides installation ease during construction. Unlike PVC or copper pipes requiring specific tools and skills, MUNICIPEX only needs a hand cutter and fitting for installation. With no glue or soldering needed, it offers quick terminations without waiting times. It is an optimal choice for hassle-free installations.
“Working with REHAU has been really good. They had rolls delivered to us in perfect order before we were even ready,” Wilbanks said. “Everything leading up to using the product and turning on the flows has exceeded expectations in terms of delivery and installation.”
The project required two 500-foot (152-metre) coils of 1 ½-inch pipe, one 300-foot (91-metre) coil of 1 ½-inch pipe, and two 100-foot (30-metre) coils of two-inch pipe.
Implementation and Training
TWT turned on the flows for the reclaim pipe in 2022. “MUNICIPEX reclaim has definitely lived up to its expectations so far,” Wilbanks said.
In 2023, Wilbanks and King organized classes in conjunction with meter training as the educational campus continues to build its meter technician program. Extra reclaim pipe was provided for demonstrations. This allowed students to experience its benefits firsthand through bending and cutting exercises.
“MUNICIPEX can be beneficial for meter installation companies because it’s durable and easy to use in comparison to copper and other piping materials,” explained Wilbanks.
To learn more and schedule a demo, visit www.municipex.com.
✯ Municipal World Executive and Essentials Plus Members: You might also be interested in Mike Archer’s article: Removing financial barriers with potable, raw water projects.
Simon Koenig is the director of plumbing & infrastructure at REHAU.
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