Using the right tools for the job

One of the most common challenges in the field is ensuring successful joints in HDPE fittings and pipe systems. Problems often arise when proper steps or tools are overlooked during the installation process. Using the correct tools is essential to achieving a reliable and durable joint. The importance of proper clamping in electrofusion welding Proper …

Some good advice on maintaining and servicing welding tools

We know that after a hard day’s work, tool maintenance is probably the last thing on your mind — an ice-cold drink and a chance to unwind with the team is always far more tempting! But by taking an extra few minutes at the end of every shift to focus on maintaining your welding tools, …

Don’t get caught out: the benefits of catch pits

Across the globe, catch pits play a vital role in wastewater and water management systems, with benefits including helping to prevent costly blockages, flooding and water contamination.   But even though this ingenious device has been around for decades, catch pits remain a relatively new feature of Australian drainage and irrigation systems. As their name suggests, …

Butt Fusion welding checklist

Trim the pipe ends all the way around Clean the heater plates When clamping the pipes in place, use the clamps to re-round the pipes Correct procedure: Ask for evidence of recent, random weld inspections by your supervisors Pressure Measure the drag pressure Check the right fusion pressure Add the two together for the overall …

The coupling or the installation? A checklist

This checklist will help you determine the root cause of a failed coupling. Proper fitting: Is it centralised on the pipe? Accurate installation: Look for evidence of witness marking Accurate installation: Check the angle of each pipe (they should be square to the coupling) Correct procedure: Spot check weld crews. Are they using tape measures …

Leading vs Lagging Indicators checklist

This checklist will help you establish and use the right indicators for your projects. Set-up Review relevant data and reports of your last five projects Collaborate with others to finalise leading indicators in every area of performance Identify sources of data for leading indiacators Set benchmarks for both leading and lagging indicators Set your target …

Maintaining HDPE maintenance checklist

Are there any operating conditions that mean you need to be more rigorous thanindustry standard suggest? Consider: Are there any operating conditions that mean you need to be more rigorous than industry standard suggest? Consider:a. Temperatureb. Pressurec. Volume Is the operational environment in line with what industry standards assume? Soil contamination or other chemical differences …

How to get the best performance on bends

When considering performance fittings for piping systems, the suitability and type of bend used on a project is essential to its functionality. In this article we consider bends that are of high-performance for slurries and media applications, and the quality required for a high-performance sweeping bend. Best practice bends  When it comes to the best …

A guide to getting started with Reliability Centred Maintenance

Reliability-centred maintenance (RCM) is a solid conceptual framework for maintenance management. For a start-to-finish rundown, there’s a technical SAE standard and even entire books about RCM. This one-pager will refresh your memory about the questions to ask when you’re getting started. Definitions Assets are the things that you and your team maintains.System is what the …