Common Questions

• What is RockStop® Rockshield made of?

  RockStop® rockshield is a white custom-blended geotextile blanket-like coating protection designed to be lightweight yet heavy-duty. Its UV-resistant formulation enhances longevity, preventing degradation over time. Routinely tested to ASTM standards, it meets strict industry requirements. Manufactured in ISO:9001-rated North American facilities, RockStop® ensures superior strength, durability, and reliability, making it a trusted solution for safeguarding pipelines.

• What rockshields are compatible with cathodic protection systems?

  Most rockshields allow groundwater to flow to and away from the pipe but leave the pipe exposed. Unlike some protective layers and wraps, RockStop® provides full coverage protection but has the permeability of sand. This design prevents damage to pipeline coatings from sand, stones, and impact from rocks up to 8” while working with cathodic protection systems.

  RockStop® pipeline rock guard mirrors the permeability of surrounding soil, ensuring it dries at the same rate without swelling. This design allows groundwater to flow freely to and from the pipe. After backfilling, RockStop® rockshield maintains soil-like hydration conductivity, similar to sand, ensuring long-term pipeline protection.

• What is the fastest way to install a rockshield?

  Rockshields (also known as rock guards) are typically applied with cable ties, filament tape, or adhesive strips. However, RockStop® Rockshield simplifies installation. Using unique QuikStrips™ (Velcro-like strips) or Heat Sealing it together in seconds with no workers on the trench-side, RockStop® is the fastest and safest rockshield to install.

  Installation Methods:

  • • QuickStrips™ – Hook-and-loop style strips that offer speed and strength for strong shear and peel resistance.
    • Heat Sealing – the fastest. one-of-a-kind, installation method creating a permanent seal in seconds with a RockStop® Heat Tool.
    • Using custom-size pads or Master rolls both easily manipulated in the field as needed.

   

  Its safe, efficient design means no workers on the ditch side, ensuring easier installation and reliable pipeline protection than any other rockshield.

• How much impact protection do I need?

  This may depend on the terrain and backfill. Surpassing ASTM G13 modified test standards for both 6” and 8” rocks, RockStop® rockshield provides superior impact protection and damage prevention. RockStop® offers superior durability while remaining lightweight and soft to the touch making it strong and easy to use.

• What type of rockshield should I use?

  Choose a rockshield that allows easy field modifications and custom cutting to reduce waste and save costs. RockStop® can easily be trimmed on-site using an Exacto knife and remains flexible in any weather, ensuring quick and efficient application for optimal pipeline protection when and where you need it while minimizing waste and keeping your project on schedule.

• When should I use a pipeline rockshield or rock guard?

  A rockshield ensures the integrity of the pipeline coating during installation, especially when buried in rocky or abrasive soil. They are particularly valuable in high-impact zones where shifting rocks or debris pose long-term risks. The flexible geotextile design of RockStop® by PipeSak also provides impact protection, reducing the risk of damage and costly repairs. We believe every pipeline should be protected to ensure long-term integrity. Contact us about RockStop®.