The
Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) is currently
experimenting with glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) pipe technology
as a possible means of eliminating the expensive corrosion problems
experienced in RAN ships.
The trial is being conducted aboard HMASAnzac (CAPTPeter Lockwood).
The technology has been used in commercial ships, offshore platforms
and naval supply ships for a number of years. However, the specialised
materiel requirements of combat ships have meant that it has not
previously been considered for combat vessels.
According to Dr Zafar Shah Khan from the DSTO, corrosion poses
the largest maintenance cost borne by the Navy. Its elimination
would result in a significant reduction in ship maintenance costs.
“GRP pipe technology has been shown to virtually eliminate
corrosion problems and can reduce maintenance costs by up to 80
per cent,” he said.
He explained that in addition to its corrosion resistance, GRP
pipe technology has several other significant advantages over
metallic piping systems.
“The filament winding process used in the manufacture, results
in light-weight seamless pipes, which do not require surface preparation
or special coatings.
“In addition, the joining and installation of GRP pipes are
relatively simple processes, whereas metallic pipes require more
specialised processes such as torch and arc welding.”
In an 18-month trial of the technology performed under a joint
DSTO-Tenix Alliance, Anzac has been temporarily fitted with glass-reinforced
plastic pipes.
The monitoring and reporting progress of the trial, and other
ongoing studies of the technology are covered under a Navy (NAVSYSCOM)
sponsored task.
