C.B. Dandekar
Papers # 2016 Berlin
Plastic Corrugated Piping System (PCPS) was introduced in India in 2001, much later than the western world started using it for various applications. It received a mixed response from the Govt. Agencies, but was well accepted by the market, actual users and standardizing institutions. PCPS finds applications in different forms like DWC, SWC, Flat and Perforated SSD Pipes and accessories, mostly made of PE, PP,PVC. Rex has been a key player in corrugated pipes so far and plans to retain its position in the years to come.
Corrugated Plastic Piping systems were introduced in India by Rex at the start of 2001. Couple of corrugator lines installed earlier mostly remained dormant for many reasons. PCPS was first used in agriculture forsiphoning canal water for irrigation. This was a stand by application that worked as a stop gap to service bank interests and keep Rex afloat till the Indian Standard for cable conduit protection system was adopted. After framing of the standards, users like Railways, Telecom Companies, Power Companies started using Corrugated Cable Conduit wholeheartedly.
Since the framing of various new Indian Standards, the PCPS has gained ground in India and has found extensive use in Land Drainage, Sports Field, Sewer / Storm Water conveying system. Rex has been an active participant, instrumental to this entire transformation. Plastic Drainage Pipe was new to Indian Agriculture before a few free-of-cost, pilot projects were undertaken in the beginning of 2002, to create awareness of its advantages. Another area which is little known to the corrugated pipe and machine makers worldwide is Post Tensioning of Civil Structures. India is a major user of Corrugated Pipe for Post Tensioning.
Some of the areas that have remained unexplored are the automotive and health care segment. Apprehension towards the introduction of any new technology is a common phenomenon. This is mainly due to the human mind set, the comfort level attained with the existing technology, time constraints and persistent follow- up required with the decision making / governing bodies.