TracStar bringing better infrastructure to rural India

McElroy, one of the leading makers of thermoplastic pipe fusion equipment opened an office, training and service facility in India last year to help improve the way of life for a growing population. The Tulsa, Oklahoma – based company has positioned itself in Bengaluru to show how fusible piping systems can be built in a short amount of time, bringing modern amenities quickly to a great number of people throughout South Asia.

The company is now supplying rental equipment as well as technical service to many projects in India. One of the key assignments where it is playing a pivotal role is in Odisha where a 100 km irrigation line is expected to be constructed using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe. To prepare for the job, McElroy trained fusion operators from M/s Chandrodaya Contractors on the proper operation of the machines with tips on safety, productivity and job site setup.

The job site is near a remote village with no power for equipment and tools. That was one of the reasons the McElroy TracStar 500 and 412 fusion machines were selected for the job, states McElroy. These machines are diesel – powered, so that fuel can be brought in and stored onsite making the pipe fusion operation possible in areas lacking electricity.

The TracStars are self-propelled with rubber crawler tracks making them rugged enough to handle any terrain and grades up to 30 per cent. The cost-saving machines are self-contained, eliminating the need for a generator or extra equipment they would have to haul around separately.

The fusion machines are designed to work with productivity tools that not only make the operator’s job easier but more efficient. The Odisha project is using McElroy’s low-profile rollers and pipe stands which helps support and protects the pipe and keeps the pipe ends in alignment while they are being joined and fused.

The operators are also using McElroy’s quality assurance tool, the DataLogger 5 which offers step-by-step instructions and records each step of the fusion process, asserts McElroy. The contractor will be able to check their records to see that each joint meets industry standards to ensure that the pipeline was fused properly before they ever bury it. Once the pipe is in the ground, residents can expect to rely on this infrastructure system for a very long time. Studies show that HDPE pipelines can last 100 years with less maintenance costs down the road because HDPE doesn’t corrode or rust. Since heat fusion technology creates a seamless pipe system that doesn’t leak, HDPE pipelines are also good for the environment and lower water costs by saving water.