Fiberglass pipes by definition are constructed using glass-fiber-reinforcements and thermosetting resins. Other ingredients are frequently included to enhance various properties or characteristics. Most machine-made fiberglass pipes are manufactured by filament winding over a mandrel, although some, including HOBAS pipes are produced by centrifugal casting.

Discussion:

Many benefits are common to most all fiberglass pipes regardless of the wall construction and method of manufacture. These benefits, which could be termed "universal", include the following:

• Inherent corrosion resistance achieved without add-on linings, coatings or cathodic protection systems.
• Excellent long-term hydraulic characteristics due to the smooth, non-corroding interior surface.
• High strength to weight ratio, allowing demanding applications to be handled economically.
• Fabrication versatility due to the ease of casting, molding, or mitering the materials and laminates.
• Dimensional stability making it suitable for precision parts.
• Lightweight construction resulting in lower costs for handling and installation.
• Low maintenance costs due to the inherent corrosion resistance and the elimination of repair and replacement costs (add-on protection systems are not needed).

While these benefits are certainly important and result in substantial savings during both installation and operation, HOBAS pipes, due to their unique design, construction, and manufacturing method, provide several additional significant benefits.

Unique Design, Characteristics & Benefits:

HOBAS pipes' unique design and characteristics provide additional significant benefits including the following: (see table below)

Design	Characteristics	Benefits
Centrifugal Casting Process	Void-free laminate with full wetout of materials	No wicking Ultra-low porosity
Computer Controlled Process	Consistent material properties and structural characteristics	High reliability Performance consistency
Molded O.D.	Smooth, constant O.D.	Cut & join pipes anywhere along their length with the HOBAS FWC or closure couplings Low jacking loads on trenchless installations
Silica Sand Included in Pipe	Achieves high stiffness and high compressive strength economically.	Predictable & reliable structural response Easier to install UV resistance without resin additives
Gradual Layer Transitions in the Pipe Wall	High inner-laminar shear strength	High impact resistance High F of S to in-use deflections
Resilient Liner Resin	High toughness	Superior abrasion resistance (>HDPE) Great crack resistance
Tight-Tolerance Gasket-Sealed Joints	Consistent high compression seal	No joint leaks Easy, fast assembly Angular deflections

Conclusion:

All fiberglass pipes provide numerous significant benefits. However, to experience the fiberglass pipe with greatest advantages, install HOBAS centrifugally-cast pipes on your next project.