How to Avoid the HORROR of Pipe Corrosion

Q: Why do ductile iron pipes still corrode, given that polyethylene wrap is now a routine practice when pipes are laid inground?

A: Years of research by Fulton Enterprises and DIPRA yielded clues as to why corrosion sometimes still occurred with polywrap in place.

Eventually, two primary culprits were identified: rust from fresh oxygen being introduced from water surges underneath the polywrap, and microbially influenced corrosion. With MIC (microbially influenced corrosion), it is the existence of bacteria (bugs) on the surface of the pipe that creates the problem. These bugs form colonies on the pipe’s surface and build a protective dome over the colony. Underneath this dome, the fecal matter (bug poop) is highly acidic and causes pitting in the ductile iron.

The team at Fulton Enterprises worked for years to identify the proper materials to be incorporated into the poly wrap to address these two threats. Eventually the right combination of VCI and a biostat (bacteria repellant) was found and that yielded what we have today: V-BIO®. It is important to be certain that authentic V-BIO® is used. This was developed after multiple failures in testing as most VCI’s and biostats dissipate under heat. V-BIO®’s formula withstands this process, making it the right choice.

Avoid a $#*+ show: Choose V-BIO®

Chase away the Gremlins this Halloween with the ‘One and Only’ V-BIO®