WATERWORKS PIPES.

Gisborne Times, Volume XIX, Issue 1652, 19 January 1906, Page 3

WATERWORKS PIPES.

Among visitors to Wellington at pro" sent is Mr D. Alton, representing the Canadian Pipe Company, Ltd., of Yancouver, British Columbia. The pipes are patent, wire-wound or steelbound wooden pipes to take the place of the iron pipes in general use in connection with waterworks systems. These pipes are made in all sizes, and : the advantages claimed for them are many. They are said to be more durable than iron or steel pipes, their cost is from 25 to 65 per cent, less, they have greater carrying capacity, and deliver the water sweeter and cooler, they are more easily handled, are not subject to rust, contraction, or electrolysis, and they last longer. The immediate object of Mr Alton’s visit to New Zealand is connected with bis company’s tendering for the projected waterworks system at Rotorua. The Government, recognising the special suitability of wooden pipes for that work, has resolved to adopt them, and two Canadian firms—the Pipe Company of Vancouver and another—are understood to be tendering. These pipes, which are an American invention, are being largely adopted in the United States and Canada, where, in addition to their other advantages, they are valued because of the fact that they' are not liable to burst during the severe frosts prevalent in the northern districts. They are not only suitable for new waterworks, but when extensions are made they can be profitably used in conjunction with iron piping already laid. The city of Yancouver has made use of these pipes for its waterworks. The pipes can be made to withstand a pressure as high as 3851 b to the square inch. While the particular purpose of Mr Alton’s visit is, as stated, connected with the Rotorua waterworks, he intends seeing more of New Zealand and Australia, and bringing the merits of the pipes under the notice of the various authorities. He has hopes that his company will get sufficient support to induce it to establish branch of its business here.