Technology
The general concept of the Channeline product is that a remarkably stiff and
strong panel section is constructed, but with a relatively thin wall. The product
differs from that of standard GRP hand or filament wound pipework in several
fundamental and important ways. Normal GRP pipework consists of windings
of layers of resin-saturated glass, which is impregnated with sand, achieving
its stiffness by building up ever increasing wall thickness. Channeline however,
derives its strength and stiffness through a different method, employing the
mechanics of sandwich panel design, incorporating a unique polymer and
aggregate core.
The first stage of Channeline manufacture is an inner sandwich structure
incorporating a 1.5 mm (0.06 inch) corrosion barrier on the inside surface
which is manufactured from high grade surface veil, precisely impregnated
with Isophthalic or Vinyl Ester resin, followed by several layers of thoroughly
impregnated multi-axial engineered fabric and CSM, forming the inner
sandwich skin.
The central core comprising of carefully metered amounts of silica and
resin which is pre- batched, mixed and evenly applied to the exact thickness
required.
The outer sandwich skin is then formed using several further layers of multiaxial
fabric, CSM and resin, with the outer surface being treated with a bonded
graded aggregate to enhance adhesion to the annular grout, which is used
during the installation phase.
The sandwich construction process is continuous, and carefully monitored and
controlled ensuring exceptional bonding of all layers throughout the process.