March 15, 2010
Hanson Pipe & Precast, a leader in the concrete products industry, provided 15 pieces of 2400 mm diameter concrete pipe on March 2 for the eastbound lane of Highway 417, in Ottawa, Ontario, after road contractors filling potholes discovered the collapse of a deteriorating 30-year-old metal culvert beneath the road. This is the second culvert collapse in two years for Highway 417. Hanson responded immediately, supplying the concrete pipe within 24 hours.
“The country’s aging infrastructure continues to be an issue of concern particularly with regard to public safety,” said Bob Christensen, senior vice president, Hanson Building Products, East. “Hanson was glad to service its community with a structurally sound, sustainable and reliable precast concrete product.”
Metal pipes typically have a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years, while concrete structures are engineered to last a lifetime. According to Ontario’s Concrete Pipe Association, many of the 50,000 or more culverts in Ontario, including more than 320 on Highway 417, were installed 30 or more years ago. Pipe failure before the intended life expectancy has been related to pollutants causing earlier corrosion, as well as improper installation, maintenance and poor specification.
“Alternative pipe products require very specific soil conditions and other installation requirements in order to be successful,” added Christensen. “Concrete can withstand large amounts of weight and is not affected by weather, soil or other factors.” Highway 417 was reopened on March 5 and the Ministry of Transportation is continuing to address the testing of pipes and problem areas in the Province.
Hanson Pipe & Precast is a division of Hanson Building Products North America. One of Hanson Building Products' corporate strategies is continued focus on sustainability. The company is known throughout North America for excellent occupational safety, environmental stewardship, high quality standards and contributions to its local communities.
About Hanson Pipe & Precast
Hanson Pipe & Precast is the largest manufacturer of concrete pipe and precast products in North America. With more than 3,500 employees, the company has a network of manufacturing facilities and delivery capabilities that span the continent. Hanson Pipe & Precast products are used in residential and commercial applications that support our infrastructure’s needs, including storm water drainage and water transportation. For more information, visit www.hansonpipeandprecast.com.
About Hanson Building Products North America
Hanson Building Products North America is comprised of Hanson Pipe & Precast, Hanson Pressure Pipe, Hanson Structural Precast, Hanson Brick, Hanson Hardscapes and Hanson Roof Tile. Based in Irving, Texas, Hanson Building Products North America employs approximately 4,500 people and operates 150 facilities with products available throughout the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Hanson's sustainability efforts and quality products, services and building technology, please visit www.hansonbuildingproducts.com.
Hanson Building Products North America and its divisions are part of the HeidelbergCement Group, the global leader in aggregates with leading positions in cement, concrete and heavy building. The company employs approximately 57,000 people across five continents.
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