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Specifying Drainage Systems in Corrosive Environments

Drainage systems are designed primarily for function. They must perform to design and demand for the area, be it a roof, a patio or driveway. The function of the base system, once confirmed, will be the basis of the hydraulic design. Finishes will be determined by the environment they will be installed into. Such as exposure to the weather and if the location is sheltered or in a coastal environment. Additionally the project could be located in a thermal exposure zone that will challenge the best of corrosion resistant materials.

At present there are several high-profile projects that are being delivered in various exposure zones, and Allproof has been involved in aligning hydraulic design with durability requirements.

For example, a couple of prominent projects are underway in Rotorua, in the heart of the thermal zones. Work is being undertaken to remedy installed roofing products that, due to the thermal activity, have failed well within their design life. Components for the renovation are now being specified in ABS plastic to ensure the best corrosion resistance.

There are localised fumaroles (thermal steam vents) under a project for a secure health unit being completed that will subject the boundary to the highest level of thermal exposure. All stainless steel components have been detailed as grade 316 and grating as recycled GFP (glass filled recycled polypropylene) to ensure slip ratings and durability requirements align with acceptable solutions in regard to durability and accessibility.

Channel drainage around thresholds and surface water drains are often either subjected to high exposure, or situated in high exposure zones, but protected from the weather. In a sheltered corner, under a soffit for example. In these situations, cast iron can oxidise heavily, and without traffic running over it to keep the patina, can detract from the overall appearance of the project. The oxidisation does not affect the long-term durability of the product but does have an aesthetic affect on the building finish. For this reason, all of Allproof’s channel drain systems have the option of stainless steel, in SS304 or SS316 and plastic gratings (often made from 100% recycled material) that will be resilient to exposure in corrosive environments, such as sea spray or thermal activity. It is becoming apparent that traditional black plastic grates are now a high level selection with its linear design, and durable black finish to match modern colour palettes.

Interaction between designer and manufacturer is crucial to ensure that the specified product will meet design and finish aesthetic requirements. Allproof work with architects and installers to ensure that selections are correct, and then the installed product will match the selections to ensure a durable and pleasing result for the project.

View more information on Allproof Industries, including contact details.
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