Wednesday, October 23, 2024

FAQs: Everything you need to know about pipeline weights

Ensuring the safety and longevity of your pipeline infrastructure requires careful consideration of the materials you use.

Here you will find everything you need to know about PipeSak® pipeline bag weights, from their design, ease of installation and environmental advantages to prioritize worker safety and pipeline integrity.

 

Why use a multi-compartment bag design?

Single-compartment designs have to fully stretch out upon lifting, putting the bags at higher risk of breaking and if there were to be a break all of the weight would pour out resulting in more waste, higher risk of injury and reduced work efficiency.

A multi-compartment design not only provides structure and even weight distribution, but also keeps workers safe and maintains long-term functionality. Upon lifting and during installation, if a hole were to develop, a majority of the weight would be withheld inside the bag therefore less waste and less chance of worker injury.

How do PipeSaks® fit in the trench?

PipeSak® offers an extreme low-profile designed to reduce the required depth of cover and to provide even weight distribution while the top fabric of the weight is designed to fit tightly to the pipeline, restricting uplift.

Each PipeSak® pipeline weight is precisely sized to ensure that the weight rests beside the pipe and in some cases even rest on the bottom of the trench rather than on top of the pipe.

Additionally, PipeSak® eliminates unnecessary trench widening costs by matching the width of the weight to the pipeline’s outer diameter. The sides of the pipeline weight are shaped as a wedge to reduce the height of the bag to nearly the diameter of the pipe resulting in lessened depth of cover requirements.

 

What is the weight range for filled PipeSak®?

Filled PipeSak® GPWs range in weight from 100kg (220 lbs) to 5670kg (12,500 lbs), depending on the size. The number of GPWs that can be hauled per load will vary with size, weight, and mode of transportation. A PipeSak® representative can provide a detailed answer based on specific requirements.

Contact us for how many weights your project will need.

Do you fill PipeSaks®?

Yes – with trained crews, we meet your weighting needs with speed and accuracy for your convenience and to keep your project on schedule. PipeSak® Geotextile Pipeline Weights are designed to be filled close to the site with local materials for maximum flexibility. This on-site filling process also makes transportation easier and more cost-effective compared to concrete weighting options.

Contact a PipeSak® representative to compare quotes between filled or empty.

Want them filled? We do that, too. Get a quote for filled PipeSaks®.

Do PipeSak® work with cathodic protection systems?

Yes – PipeSak® GPWs are compatible with cathodic protection systems and have been validated by third-party corrosion testing. Made from permeable geotextile fabric rated for underground use, they match the permeability of the ballast material inside the bag. The use of a woven non-coated fabric ensures a clear path for water and cathodic protection currents. Modern woven fabrics are designed to be highly durable, long-lasting, and resistant to tearing.

 

What material are PipeSak® saddle bag weights made from?

PipeSak® pipeline addle bag weights are made from an inert, non-biodegradable, underground-rated polypropylene. When properly handled and installed, this material ensures that the pipeline weights will outlast the lifetime of the pipeline they support. This robust woven material is crucial for enabling the PipeSaks to safely support substantial weight.

 

How long can a PipeSak® Geotextile Pipeline Weight sit in the sun?

PipeSak® GPWs are manufactured using high-grade geotextile fabrics that have been treated for UV exposure. For extended exposure periods exceeding 6 months, we recommend covering the GPWs with a tarp or silage wrap. Empty PipeSak® GPWs are packaged with a UV-resistant cover for extended protection from the elements.

 

What should I fill PipeSaks® with?

PipeSak® generally suggests filling the GPWs with clean local aggregate, sand, or gravel, depending on what is most readily available. In freezing conditions, it is advisable to use natural, screened stone aggregate with a consistent size to reduce the chances of freezing.

Speak to our engineering experts for a ballast and spacing estimate.

 

Where can I get PipeSak® saddle bag weights from?

PipeSak® pipeline weights can be shipped empty worldwide and then filled close to the site using local aggregate.

For immediate needs, please contact a PipeSak® representative. 

How durable are PipeSaks®?

Each component of a PipeSak® is engineered with a minimum 4x factor of safety to meet the rigorous demands of pipeline construction. The fabric and webbing of PipeSak® undergo strict quality control testing to ensure consistency in performance.

 

Conclusion

PipeSak® Geotextile Pipeline Weights are engineered with precision and durability in mind, offering a reliable solution for pipeline stabilization. From their UV-resistant fabric to their careful design that ensures no pressure on the pipeline, PipeSak® GPWs meet the highest industry standards. Whether you’re looking for efficient filling options, need to ensure compatibility with cathodic protection systems, or require quick fulfillment from local stockpiles, PipeSak® has the expertise and resources to meet your needs.

Trust in PipeSak® GPWs for a cost-effective, long-lasting solution that supports the integrity of your pipeline projects.

Get complete protection from every angle with our industry-leading products- Learn more below.

 

Quick Links:

See how PipeSaks helped buoyancy challenges in the Mid-Michigan project

Compare PipeSaks® to traditional weights

Discover more PipeSak protection products

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