Project Overview and Location

In Orchard City, Colorado, 54” and 60” Class 63 Open Profile Spirolite Pipe and HDPE fittings were used in a critical water resource management project aimed at modernizing and optimizing water delivery infrastructure.

Project Scope and Engineering Solution

This project addressed the hydraulic efficiency of different pipe diameters, demonstrating that a 54” Spirolite pipe could achieve the same flow capacity as a larger 60” pipe. By evaluating flow performance and structural integrity, the engineering team determined that smaller-diameter Spirolite pipes could meet project requirements while reducing material costs and installation complexity.

Additionally, the project capitalized on the ability to nest smaller pipes within larger ones for delivery, which resulted in significant freight cost savings and optimized logistics to meet installation deadlines efficiently.

Project Benefits and Innovation

The installation of Spirolite pipe in this project played a pivotal role in upgrading water conveyance infrastructure for agricultural water distribution. Traditionally, water was delivered through open reservoirs and dug canals, which led to high evaporation losses and inefficiencies. This modernization effort helped:

• Reduce Water Loss – Enclosed HDPE-based Spirolite pipes prevent evaporation, ensuring that more water reaches farms instead of being lost to the environment.
• Improve Flow Efficiency – The high-flow capacity and smooth interior of Spirolite pipe enhance water delivery rates, reducing maintenance needs.
• Enhance Long-Term Durability – Unlike traditional concrete or steel pipes, HDPE Spirolite pipes resist corrosion, chemical exposure, and environmental wear, ensuring long-term reliability in harsh soil and weather conditions.
• Lower Transportation & Installation Costs – The ability to nest pipes during shipment reduced freight expenses, while the lightweight nature of Spirolite allowed for quicker installation with fewer heavy-equipment requirements.

Project Impact: A Sustainable Future for Agriculture

This project is a game-changer for Orchard City farmers, who rely on a dependable and efficient water supply. By transitioning from traditional open canal systems to enclosed Spirolite pipe infrastructure, the project:

• Supports Sustainable Agriculture – More efficient water management ensures that farms receive the water they need while minimizing waste.
• Modernizes Aging Infrastructure – Replacing outdated irrigation methods with high-performance, long-lasting Spirolite pipe prepares the region for future water challenges.
• Delivers Cost-Effective Water Solutions – Reduced freight costs, long-term maintenance savings, and optimized flow rates provide a smarter investment for water utilities and farmers alike.

The success of this project showcases Spirolite pipe’s superior adaptability in large-diameter water management applications, reinforcing its role as a leading solution for modern infrastructure projects.