Wastewater Infrastructure Upgrades to Boost US Demand for Large-Diameter Pipe

Sewers, which include both storm and sanitary sewers, will continue to be the leading market for large-diameter pipe through 2016, accounting for one half of total demand, the study finds. Gains in large-diameter storm sewer pipe will come in large part from the U.S. population migrating toward the South and West regions of the country. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates will also provide opportunities for growth, as regulations regarding combined sewer overflows have become more stringent. As a result, many locales will be required to replace combined storm/sanitary sewer systems. The drainage market will experience the most robust growth in large diameter pipe demand through the forecast period, benefiting significantly from a rebound in building construction. By 2016, oil and gas will be the only major market for large diameter pipe that will have a significantly higher level of demand than 2006 levels.  

Steel and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) were the two leading large-diameter pipe materials in 2011, each accounting for 31 percent of total demand, according to the study. Opportunities in the oil and gas industry will spur growth for steel through 2016, as it is the preferred material in both line pipe and oil country tubular goods (OCTG) applications. HDPE will post above average gains as it continues to replace other materials in many applications. For example, corrugated HDPE will continue to replace concrete pipe in many drainage applications, benefiting from its ease of installation and light weight. Concrete will post the most rapid growth through 2016, as the material continues to benefit from its established position in most water markets and its unmatched performance advantages in the largest diameter uses.