Manholes made from polyethylene emerge as a faster and safer option for sewage infrastructure works.The infrastructure sector now has another solution for expediting and improving the quality of basic sanitation works in Brazil: rotomolded polyethylene (PVs) maintenance holes. The innovative product was developed by Asperbrás and Brinquedos Bandeirante, with the support of Braskem, which is the largest resin producer in the Americas and largest biopolymer producer in the world.
Rotomolded manholes make installation and maintenance tasks easier and are more economical and ecologically correct. Made from linear low-density polyethylene developed by Braskem especially for this purpose, they feature high durability thanks to their excellent resistance to breakage caused by pressure, as well as high impact resistance. This means they are less prone to fractures and ruptures that cause leaks, which prevents contamination of the surrounding soil.
Given its characteristics, rotomolded manholes are adaptable to any soil type. Since they are waterproof, they are ideal for wet soils and can be easily adapted for use in new networks as well as for replacing existing manholes made from concrete or masonry. Since they are lighter than the traditional concrete structures, they are easier to handle, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions during transportation. A concrete manhole weighs some 700 kg, while the polyethylene equivalent weighs 70 kg.
The product's overall cost is also lower, since it requires zero maintenance and has a lower installation cost.
Foz do Brasil, the environmental solutions company of the Odebrecht Organization, has invested in new technologies to develop a modern and innovative project in the sewage sector. Foz do Brasil's sewage project in Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, located on the border with the Uruguay, is considered one of the most modern in the industry due to its use of cutting edge-technology to expand applications, reduce costs and improve durability. One of the main goals of Foz do Brasil in the city is to provide universal access to water supply and sewage service within five years. The advantages in Uruguaiana include the installation of rotomolded polyethylene manholes due to their increased resistance.
The infrastructure works in the city will include the installation of some 4,000 manholes over the next five years. According to Operations Director Eduardo Frediani, the manholes are fast and easy to use, with each installed in under 30 minutes. Another highlight is its polished, nonstick and seamless surface, which makes the material self-cleaning and waterproof and increases its useful life.
